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Managing small pupils during phaco cataract surgery, part 1
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Managing small pupils during phaco cataract surgery
In this series of videos, Alessandro Galan, MD, shows different ways to deal with small pupils during cataract surgery.
Part 1: Small pupil phaco
Microincision cataract surgery can be safely performed, provided that the diameter of the pupil is sufficient to allow performing a capsulorrhexis of 4 mm to 5 mm.
Precautions to be taken during the first stages of surgery are the creation of a long corneal tunnel and the use of an adhesive or high molecular weight viscoelastic.
The best phacoemulsification technique in these cases is the central “phaco chop” technique, which prevents contact and potential damage to the iris.
The use of “push and pull” hooks helps get the iris out of the way while visualizing residuals and aspirating the cortex.
IOL implantation and viscoelastic removal are easily carried out with standard maneuvers.
To see the other parts of this series click here: Part 2, Part 3, Part 4.
- For more information:
- Alessandro Galan, MD, OSN Europe Edition Board Member, is head of ophthalmology at Sant’Antonio Hospital, Padua, Italy. He can be reached at can be reached at Ospedale Civile Sant’Antonio, Via Facciolati 121, Padova, Italy; email: alessandro.galan@gmail.com.
Disclosure: Galan reports no relevant financial disclosures.