Hydro-dispersion of subincisional cortex.

BACKGROUND: A simple technique to facilitate removal of subincisional cortex in cataract surgery is presented. METHODS: A disposable 27-gauge blunt needle attached to a 5.0-ml syringe containing balanced salt solution (BSS) is introduced through the side port incision into the anterior chamber. The tip of the needle is directed toward the capsule fornix beneath the incision site, and BSS is flushed to disperse the remaining cortex. Thereafter, the coaxial irrigation/aspiration device is used to remove the loosened cortex. RESULTS: This technique was used in 60 eyes of 60 patients with difficulty of removing cortical remnant in the subincisional space. Subincisional cortical material was successfully removed in 93.3% (56/60 eyes). There were no intraoperative and postoperative complications related to this procedure. CONCLUSIONS: The hydro-dispersion technique is a simple and safe approach to remove the subincisional cortical material that is difficult to manage with the standard coaxial irrigation/aspiration device.

How to Manage the Cortex After CTR Insertion.

Capsular tension ring (CTR) realizes safe cataract surgery. However, residual cortex removal becomes difficult with CTR. Originally, the flushing technique was developed for intracameral antibiotic administration. Using this technique with larger amounts of solution enables surgeons to 1) deliver antibiotics to the anterior chamber and area behind the intraocular lens, resulting in stable, scheduled antibiotic concentration and 2) entirely irrigate and displace the area, leading to the effective cleansing of residual substances and bacterial pollution. When performing the flushing technique, the residual cortex and debris that were not eliminated by ordinary irrigation and aspiration can be pushed out to the anterior chamber. Applying flushing technique to CTR cases, the residual cortex and debris trapped between the CTR loop and capsular equator is lifted into the anterior chamber and easily removed. If the capsular bag is polluted by bacteria, it may also be lifted to the anterior chamber.