Phacoemulsification

Phacoemulsification is a specific type of cataract surgery. It involves removal of an opacified crystalline lens combined with the plastic intraocular lens replacement. It is performed an estimated 1.6 million times each year in the USA. In
phacoemulsification the lens nucleus and cortex are removed through a 3.2mm incision compared with a 14mm incision for traditional extracapsular extraction. The technique involves breaking up, or emulsifying the nucleus ultrasonically and aspirating it.

The advantages of small incision cataract surgery are rapid visual rehabilitation for the patient associated with low induced astigmatism so that the patients can gain stable and useful vision within a few days of surgery compared with three months
after traditional surgery. The popularity of phacoemulsification is rapidly increasing so that it is likely to be the method of choice for main cataract surgery. This technique forms the basis for one-stitch surgery and no-stitch surgery but it is
perceived to be a very difficult procedure to learn.

This practical handbook provides an introduction to phacoemulsification, detailing aims of surgery, equipment, technology, pathophysiology and surgical techniques. It covers patient selection, contrainindications, incision and wound closure techniques before describing the procedures in a clear step by step format. The text is complimented by large, clear, two colour line diagrams showing all procedures and techniques. The book then discusses complications, their prevention and management, together with advanced techniques, complicated cases, corneal topography, control of astigmatism. The role of wet labs, anaesthetic techniques are also covered. An essential practical handbook, this text will be invaluable to all ophthalmic surgeons new to phacoemulsification or all those wishing to refine their techniques.