Dr.RAVISH GHANSHYAM VAISHNAV

, Dr.Suhas Haldipurkar, Dr. VIJAY SHETTY

Abstract

Hard cataracts continue to be a challenge in phacoemulsification. Phaco surgery in hard cataracts remains nightmare for eye surgeons and carries high risk of complications such as nucleus drop, rhexis runaway, posterior capsule rupture (PCR), corneal burn, and endothelial damage. Though over the years, there have been many advancements in techniques and ways to handle a hard cataract, still managing it tests the surgeon’s skills and patience alike.

In the video here, we try to show case various tips and tricks to manage hard cataracts including rhexis management in Intumescent cataracts, debulking the anterior capsule, use of various devices for rhexis making, efficient use of OVDs for endothelial protection, the right technique to emulsify, managing PCR, managing the weak zonules and so on. A successful management of a hard cataract goes a long way in boosting a Surgeon’s confidence and yielding good post-op results.