"Stop & drop"- a modified "stop & chop" phacoemulsification technique for cataract surgery. Issue 5 (September 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mtanes, Kamal; Mimouni, Michael; Sommer, Adir C.; Blumenthal, Eytan Z.
• Is Part Of: European journal of ophthalmology. Volume 32:Issue 5(2022)
• Page Start: 3110
• Page End: 3112
• Publication Date: 2022-09
• Subjects: Phacoemulsification -- horizontal chopping -- radial tear -- posterior capsule rupture -- phacodonesis; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; Eye -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 617.7005
• DOI: 10.1177/11206721221087557
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1120-6721

Abstract

Purpose: To introduce a novel technique termed "stop and drop" for creating the first crack in the initial hemi-nucleus, eliminating the need to slip a chopper under the anterior capsular rim during horizontal chopping, hence lowering the risk of capsular or zonular damage. Methods: Placing a blunt chopper tip on the upper surface of the hemisection proximal to the capsular edge and pressing it downward to initiate a crack in a pinching manoeuvre. Once a crack has formed, the chopper can slide to the side, widening the crack and assisting the phaco needle to pull out the first fragment. Results: The technique was used in over 100 cases of cataracts successfully. No radial tear, posterior capsule rupture or zonulolysis occurred. Conclusions: "Stop and drop" is an effective and safe technique for performing phacoemulsification. It is not suitable for soft nuclei where the chopper will likely "cheese-wire" through the nuclear material.