Rotary Chop: A New Technique for Tackling Mature Cataracts and Teaching Chop

Show Description +

Cristos Ifantides, MD, MBA describes Rotary Chop-a new chop technique most valuable for two groups: 1) experienced surgeons with challenging nuclear fragmentation secondary to mature cataracts or zonulopathies, and 2) inexperienced surgeons who desire to learn a chop technique. We have termed this new method “rotary chop” since the partial thickness pilot holes created by the phaco tip around the periphery of the nucleus produce a rotary phone dial appearance on the surface of the cataract. Using the pilot holes, the surgeon is easily able to place the chopper deep into the body of the nucleus, avoiding the need to apply vertical piercing force to the nucleus. This also avoids unnecessary zonular stress. Further, inexperienced surgeons can use this technique during routine cataract surgery to quickly master the movements necessary for both vertical and horizontal chop in a safe environment.

Posted: 6/25/2019

Rotary Chop: A New Technique for Tackling Mature Cataracts and Teaching Chop

Cristos Ifantides, MD, MBA describes Rotary Chop-a new chop technique most valuable for two groups: 1) experienced surgeons with challenging nuclear fragmentation secondary to mature cataracts or zonulopathies, and 2) inexperienced surgeons who desire to learn a chop technique. We have termed this new method “rotary chop” since the partial thickness pilot holes created by the phaco tip around the periphery of the nucleus produce a rotary phone dial appearance on the surface of the cataract. Using the pilot holes, the surgeon is easily able to place the chopper deep into the body of the nucleus, avoiding the need to apply vertical piercing force to the nucleus. This also avoids unnecessary zonular stress. Further, inexperienced surgeons can use this technique during routine cataract surgery to quickly master the movements necessary for both vertical and horizontal chop in a safe environment.

Posted: 6/25/2019

Please log in to leave a comment.

Comments

Ana Morales

4 years ago

Hi, Great technique Do you use the centurion system? Please share your phaco- settings. Also, what chopper do you use? I appreciate your feedback

Alan Margolis

6 years ago

Thanks for this! I will try it myself next time in the OR!