Effects of phacoemulsification time on the corneal endothelium using phacofracture and phaco chop techniques

Abstract

Purpose: 

To quantitatively assess early postoperative endothelial damage caused by two phacoemulsification techniques and to ascertain the effect of differences in phacoemulsification time.

Setting: 

Department of Ophthalmology, Umberto Hospital, Lugo, Italy.

Methods: 

This prospective study evaluated 100 patients who had phacoemulsification using one of two techniques: phaco chop (n = 50) or four-quadrant, divide and conquer phacofracture (n = 50). The endothelium of both groups was analyzed preoperatively and 8 weeks postoperatively by specular microscopy.

Results: 

Phaco chop led to significantly shorter phacoemulsification time and less endothelial damage. Mean equivalent phacoemulsification time was 25.53 seconds ± 11.26 (SD) in the phaco chop group and 87.26 ± 48.03 seconds in the phacofracture group. Endothelial cell loss was 4.72 ± 1.2% and 13.80 ± 4.3%, respectively.

Conclusion: 

The phaco chop technique led to shorter phacoemulsification time and less endothelial cell loss.