J.ophthalmol.(Ukraine).2015;6:33-36.

https://doi.org/10.31288/oftalmolzh201563336

Improved phaco needle for dense nucleus

Ya.A. Grytsenko, MD

S.K. Dmitriyev,  Dr. Sc. (Med), Prof

N.V. Pasyechnikova, Dr. Sc. (Med), Prof

Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy

Odessa (Ukraine)

E-mail: awsed2005@ukr.net

Keywords: phaco needle, dense nuclei, cataract

Background: Phacoemulsification (phaco) of the dense nuclear cataract tends to be associated with difficulties caused by impossibility of breaking the nucleus up completely. Therefore, the development of a phaco needle allowing for an improved capacity of ultrasound to destroy the dense nucleus with minimal ultrasound expense is important.

Purpose: To improve a phaco needle for dense nucleus in order to allow for a more effective destruction (fragmentation and cutting) of the lens and aspiration of fine lens matter through a reduction in a level of lens exposure to ultrasound from the needle.

Materials and Methods: Forty-six patients (50 eyes) underwent phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation. In 23 cases, the surgeon used the conventional phaco chop nucleus-dividing technique with the aid of an advanced phaco needle. No intraoperative complication was observed.

Results: We have developed an improved phaco needle which has the following feature when compared with a conventional one: the end surface of the flared portion has a plurality of isosceles teeth, allowing the needle to penetrate the nucleus and remove the phaco debris more efficiently. The use of the needle allowed for a reduction in the level of eyeball exposure to ultrasound, thus reducing the risk of intra- and postoperative complications in patients with dense nuclear cataracts.

 

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