3001: resident dense cataract chop
This video showcases an anonymous resident surgeon performing a dense cataract phaco chop for his 93rd case. The surgeon demonstrates excellent control right from the start, properly utilizing a second instrument to fixate the eye while constructing the main corneal incision. Managing a dense nuclear core at this stage of training requires exceptional mechanical efficiency. Implementing a stop and chop / phaco chop technique allows the surgeon to split the firm nucleus into manageable fragments while minimizing the total amount of ultrasound energy delivered to the eye, ultimately protecting the corneal endothelium. This is a highly instructive case for any resident looking to advance their nuclear division skills on denser lenses. Great job for case 93! What is your preferred chopper design when tackling a particularly dense, brunescent cataract? Please comment your thoughts and surgical pearls below.
