Phaco-handpiece used as a Fragmatome for managing nucleus drop

ABSTRACT

Background: Nucleus drop during cataract surgery is a dreaded complication and requires urgent vitreo?retinal intervention which is managed commonly using a fragmatome. However, a fragmatome is not readily available in routine ophthalmology set?ups because its use is very limited. On the other hand, a phaco?probe is commonly available with all surgeons and makes it cost?effective. Purpose: The purpose is to demonstrate the utility of a phaco?probe as an alternative to a fragmatome in managing nucleus drop during cataract surgery, making it cost?effective and less time?consuming and simple. Synopsis The video shows two cases of complicated cataract surgery in which a nucleus is dropped in the vitreous cavity. The sleeve of the phaco?probe was removed, and infusion was disconnected to make it function as a fragmatome. We noted reduced lenticular repulsion from the phaco?handpiece tip as compared to the fragmatome, and no scleral burns were observed. The cases were completed by secondary placement of an intra?ocular lens in the sulcus in the same sitting. Thus, the phaco?probe can be considered to manage nucleus drop in the absence of a fragmatome. Highlights A phaco?probe can be used as an alternative to a framgamtome, which is a cost?effective and simple technique.