Different techniques of nucleus delivery in extracapsular cataract extraction

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to evaluate different techniques performed for nucleus delivery in planned extracapsular cataract extraction [ECCE]. ECCE with or without posterior chamber IOL was performed in 60 eyes of 50 patients. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to the technique of nucleus delivery. Each group included 20 eyes. In the first group the nucleus was delivered by bimanual pressure at 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock. In the second group the nucleus was delivered by Simcoe loop and in the third group the nucleus was delivered by pressure on the sclera at 12 o'clock after closed hydrodissection technique. Nucleus delivery was classified into easy, difficult or failed when the surgeon shifted to another technique to deliver the nucleus. In the first group, difficult expression of lens nucleus occurred in 3 cases and failed expression in 3 cases. Zonular rupture and vitreous loss occured in 2 cases, we recommend to avoid this technique in cases with weak zonule and in cases with old age and high myopia. In the second group difficult nucleus delivery occurred in 4 cases. This technique needs more surgical skill and is better avoided in young patients. In the third group difficult nucleus delivery occurred in 3 cases and failed nucleus delivery in 3 cases. This technique must be avoided in Morgagnian cataract and in soft eyes