AIM: To compare the accuracy of Toric intraocular lens(IOL)alignment and visual outcome using the femtosecond laser-assisted capsulotomy markings(FLACM)versus a conventional slitlamp-assisted manual marking(SAMM)procedure.

METHODS: Totally 50 patients required cataract surgery and Toric IOL implantation were assigned to the FLACM group(25 eyes)or the SAMM group(25 eyes). The uncorrected distant visual acuity(UCDVA), best corrected distant visual acuity(BCDVA), residual astigmatism(RA), IOL rotation, MTF Total were measured 1mo after surgery.

RESULTS: The UCDVA(LogMAR)was significantly lower in the FLACM group than in the SAMM group 1mo postoperatively(0.15±0.09 vs 0.22±0.11, P<0.05). The RA and IOL rotation were significantly lower in the FLACM group than in the SAMM group(0.30±0.18D vs 0.64±0.28D, P<0.05; 3.64°±1.68° vs 5.40°±3.44°, P<0.05). There was no statistical difference between the two groups in the BCDVA and MTF total value(P>0.05). The UCDVA(LogMAR)was positive correlative to the RA(r=0.350, P<0.05)and IOL rotation(r=0.369, P<0.05), and was negative correlative to the MTF total value(r= -0.290, P<0.05); the RA was positive correlative to the IOL rotation(r=0.431, P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: The accuracy of the axis alignment was significantly higher in the FLACM group, which results in lower residual astigmatism and better visual outcome.