Ultrachopper Assisted Prechopping for Small-incision Cataract Surgery

Abstract

Purpose To describe a new technique to split rock-hard nuclei using an ultrasonic chopper (Ultrachopper) and a prechopper, in order to perform a modified small incision manual cataract extraction. Methods The Ultrachopper device, which is compatible with modern phacoemulsification systems, is used to facilitate the division of very hard nuclei in a straightforward manner using a manual prechopper, and the two fragments are extracted using Kansas forceps. Results In rock-hard nuclei, this technique is very effective to divide and extract the fragments. The risk of complications related to phacoemulsification on these very challenging cases is avoided. Conclusions This modified small incision manual cataract extraction technique, assisted with an ultrasonic chopper (Ultrachopper) and a prechopper, is a very good alternative in rock-hard nuclei.