Deconstructing cataract surgery 6 - Phacoemulsification

This is the sixth in a series of videos - 'deconstructing cataract surgery' - designed to help surgeons in training develop a solid foundation in cataract surgery technique. Here we emphasise floating and pivoting in the entry sites, keeping the eye in the position of maximum visibility. Avoid pressing posteriorly in the paracentesis to avoid problems with chamber stability and iris prolapse. Use the second instrument to pin the remainder of the lens back. This maintains an anatomical orientation and a clear surgical strategy, and controls the posterior capsule whilst making space for the fragment you are emulsifying to float up through the rhexis and fold into the phaco handpiece freely. Always look for and deal with fragments trapped in the entry sites before you switch over to the I/A.