Comparative motion profile characterization of the mini-flared and balanced phacoemulsification tips

Session Details

Session Title: Cataract Surgery Complications Management. OVDs, Cataract Surgery Equipment

Session Date/Time: Monday 07/09/2015 | 08:00-10:00

Paper Time: 09:48

Venue: Main Auditorium

First Author: : J.Zacharias CHILE

Co Author(s): :                        

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To compare the motion profile and heat generation of the new Balanced phaco probe with the Mini-flared tip to determine the distribution of kinetic energy along the probe length, particularly at the probe distal end and at the incisional region, including models for incision mechanical disturbance and heat generation.

Setting:

Pasteur Ophtalmic Clinic Phacodynamics Laboratory, Santiago, Chile

Methods:

A high speed video camera was used to obtain real-time video recordings at a frame rate of 10.000 frames per second. Also, a microprocessor controlled stroboscopic high definition image capture system was devised to produce pseudo-slow motion video recordings of the phaco tips operated in torsional mode. Images were captured using a trinocular microscope and alternatively a Xenon light source or a pulsed high power LED source. Incisional region motion was observed in an eye model with suitably shaped incisions of 2.2 mm. Comparative thermal image video recordings were performed.

Results:

The balanced tip exhibited a 50% increase in the lateral stroke length of the distal end compared to the Mini-flared tip for equal ultrasonic power settings. At incisional level the stroke length was reduced in 30% and incision tissue vibration was reduced as observed in the eye model. Thermal imaging showed a substantial reduction in heat generation with and without load applied of the Balanced tip compared to the mini-flared.

Conclusions:

The balanced tip exhibits increased lateral stroke at the tip distal end while simultaneously reducing lateral stroke in the incisional region compared to the Mini-flared tip. Incision mechanical disturbance and heat generation are both reduced while stroke length is increased. This may help to reduce incision disturbance and thermal injuries.

Financial Interest:

One of the authors research is funded, fully or partially, by a company producing, developing or supplying the product or procedure presented