Phacoemulsification ( Phaco = lens, emulsification)

Phacoemulsification ( Phaco = lens, emulsification) or phaco as it is popularly called is a technique where the lens is broken into small pieces , emulsified and then aspirated.

EYE-DROP ANAESTHESIA FOR PHACO

Anaesthetic eye drops are used prior to the procedure to numb the eye. Sometimes a diluted 1% lidocaine is irrigated into the anterior part of the eye to numb the sensitive iris in case the phaco tip touches it.

Since phaco is a short time painless procedure and there is very little handling of the eye, this no-injection eye drop anaesthesia is enough for a total comfort of the patient. One should also remember that eye drop anaesthesia is safer than injection which can cause complications like drug reaction and peforation of the eye.

THE NO-STITCH PHACO

Phacoemulsification is done with a thin probe which can enter the eye through a 3.2 mm incision. This incision is made in such a manner that a small tunnel is formed with a length of approximately 2.5 mm. The configuration of the tunnel is such that it closes when the eye pressure is increased and so does not need any stitch to keep it closed.

BEST TIME FOR PHACO CATARACT SURGERY

Today the life style of every person is such that eyes are used extensively for reading/writing/driving during day and night/ watching television etc. and cataract surgery has become very patient friendly. The recovery is quick and discomfort is minimal. Also as the cataract "matures" , it becomes harder and difficult to emulsify with phacoemulsification.

It is therefore, advisable to get the phco-cataract surgery done as early as possible. Definitely when the person is able to read the top letter indicating cataract is sufficiently ready for operation.

PRECAUTIONS BEFORE & AFTER PHACO CATARACT SURGERY

It is advisable to maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness. No cosmetics should be used on the eye or face. There are no dietary restrictions required before or after cataract operation. Dietary restrictions for other systemic diseases should be observed. Splashing water in the eye to wash it is not to be done. Face can be washed and head bath can be taken with the eyes closed.

PHACO CATARACT SURGERY IN DIABETICS

Control of blood sugar is essential. A post prandial blood sugar level of up to 180 mg % should be maintained before and after cataract operation.

PHACO CATARACT SURGERY IN HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Blood pressure control should be maintained with appropriate medications before/ during and after surgery.

PHACO CATARACT SURGERY IN OTHER DISEASES

Other diseases like Bronchial Asthma, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Dependance on steroids should be discussed and appropriate measures should be taken.

THE COLD PHACO

New phacoemulsification probe produce less heat during ultrasonic vibration thus prteventing heat induced damage to the incision and cornea. This can even be used without infusion sleeve through a smaller incision of 1 – 1.4 mm.

MICRO-INCISION CATARACT SURGERY (MICS)

Phacoemulsification through a smaller incision of around 1 mm with a sleeveless phaco tip and irrigation through a separate side port provides an advantage of speedy recovery, faster healing and lesser surgery induced astigmatism. The surgery involves insertion of a rollable lens of 5.5mm dia which can be inserted through 1.2 mm incision (The microincision).

SPECIAL LENSES

• Multi-Focal IOL
• Accomodative IOL
• Rollable IOL
• Blue Blocking IOL
• Light Adjustable IOL
• Foldable IOL
• Monofocal IOL
• Trifocal IOL
• Extended Depth IOL