What is phacoemulsification? Is this laser? Does it involve cuts on the eye to r!
Question:
What is phacoemulsification? Is this laser? Does it involve cuts on the eye to remove cataracts?
A friend of mine said phacoemulsification and laser are the same thing. Please clarify.
Answers:
Phacoemulsification is a form of cataract surgery where-in an ultrasonic probe is inserted into the eye through a small incision (2.5-3mm). The probe is used to apply ultrasonic energy to shatter or emulsify cataractous lenses which is then aspirated out of the eye piece meal.
IT IS NOT LASER. The probe vibrates back and forth (and in some phaco machines side to side) at an ultrasonic rate and it is this energy which shatters the cataract into small pieces.
And as was previously stated, it does involve small cuts on the clear portion (the cornea) of the eye, but these cuts are usually self-sealing and normally doesn't require and sutures.