phacoemulsification
Pronunciation: FAY-koh-ee-mul-sih-fih-KAY-shun
Surgical technique for cataract removal using ultrasonic energy to fragment the lens.
Full Definition
Phacoemulsification is the gold standard surgical procedure for cataract extraction, involving the use of ultrasonic energy to break up the clouded natural lens into small fragments that can be aspirated from the eye. This minimally invasive technique allows for small incision surgery and faster recovery compared to traditional extracapsular cataract extraction. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and involves the insertion of an intraocular lens to replace the removed natural lens.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as 'phaco' in clinical notes, but full term should be used in formal documentation.
In Context
- "The patient underwent uncomplicated phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation in the right eye." — Operative report
- "Phacoemulsification parameters were adjusted to minimize endothelial cell loss during surgery." — Surgical documentation