Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
phacoemulsification
Pronunciation: fay-koh-ee-mul-sih-fih-KAY-shun
A surgical technique using ultrasound energy to break up and remove cataracts through a small corneal incision.
Full Definition
Phacoemulsification is the gold standard surgical method for cataract removal, employing ultrasonic vibrations to fragment the clouded natural lens. The procedure is performed through a 2-3mm self-sealing corneal incision, allowing for faster healing and reduced complications compared to traditional extracapsular cataract extraction. An intraocular lens is typically implanted immediately following lens removal.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as 'phaco' in surgical notes and discussions.
In Context
- "The surgeon performed phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation under topical anesthesia." — Operative report
- "Phacoemulsification parameters were adjusted to minimize corneal endothelial cell damage." — Surgical technique documentation
Also known as
phaco
Contrasted with
extracapsular cataract extraction
intracapsular cataract extraction
Don't confuse with
phacotrabeculectomy