Phacoémulsification

In industrialized countries, phacoemulsification is the gold standard for lens extracapsular extraction. The basic principle is the vibration of a probe at an ultrasound frequency, combined with an irrigation-aspiration system. The advantages of a short incision are the rapid healing and the decreased astigmatism that both have largely contributed in the development of the ambulatory management. Flexible or injectable implants are implemented through such incisions. Phacoemulsification is a safe treatment for cataract, with specific complications related to the method. The various functions of the phacoemulsificator and the successive surgical steps are presented and illustrated.