AIM: To compare changes in visual contrast sensitivity after implantable contact lens(ICL)implantation of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens in high myopia eyes.

METHODS: Contrast sensitivity function and visual acuity were evaluated in 52 eyes of 27 high myopia patients undergoing ICL implantation. We tested the contrast sensitivity pre-operation and 1 week after operation with best spectacle visual correction. The test included 4 modes which were day and night, with and without glare and 5 space frequents were 1.5c/deg, 3c/deg, 6c/deg, 12c/deg, 18 c/deg.

RESULTS: The mean value of uncorrected visual acuity after ICL implantation was 4.8558±0.6960(ranged from 4.5 to 5.1). The postoperative contrast sensitivity values were found significantly higher(P<0.05)than those of the preoperative eyes. One week, 1 month, 3 months postoperatively, the uncorrected visual acuity was significantly improved(P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: ICL implantation improves the contrast sensitivity and visual function of the high myopia eyes.