Advantages of Phacoemulsification for Catarcat Surgery

Phacoemulsification is a term for surgical technique currently used for eye cataract surgery. Its origin dates back to the early 90's.

Steps involved in Phacoemulsification

This technique involves the following steps:

Entry to the eye: which is done through a small incision self-sealing type (most likely will not need stitches) that has a diameter of 2.8 to 3.2 mm. Recently, phacoemulsification techniques are developed using smaller incisions (1.5mm. / 2.0mm.).

Opening of the capsule of the cataract: the outer membrane that surrounds the cataract (lens capsule) is open anteriorly carefully. Then through this opening and into the "capsular bag" will take the fragmentation and aspiration of cataract.

Phaco is performed: with an ultrasonic probe equipped with titanium hollow needle of 0.9 mm in diameter, which vibrates longitudinally back and forth between 30,000 to 60,000 times per second (30 to 60 kHz), thus acting as a chisel or chisel on the particular fragment cataract (phacoemulsification) are simultaneously aspirated through the conduit of the ultrasound probe.


Interocular lens placement: after phacoemulsification lens is introduced (either with tweezers or special nozzles that do not require extending the incision) that unfolds within the "capsular bag (foldable interocular lens). Cataract surgery is successfully completed without any stitches

Is there pain in this surgery?
The technique of phacoemulsification is not painful during or after surgery. In fact, this surgery can be performed with topical anesthesia (eye drops) without injections.


What is the post-operative care that needs to undertaken?
The patient will use eye drops (antibiotics and anti-inflammatory) for approximately 15 days. The greatest care is that patient will not rub eyes during the first 20 days, and then be done with care. Work tasks "desktop" can resume a week with a temporary lens for reading. Sporting activities can be performed after 15 days according to their characteristics.


What are the advantages of this technique?

Its advantages are:

Rapid visual rehabilitation
Early resumption of daily activities
Minor ocular inflammation
Minor postoperative astigmatism