A simple device to augment irrigation and aspiration

Abstract

Extracapsular cataract extraction requires aspiration of residual cortical material after the nucleus has been removed. The cortical material may vary in both its consistency and its adherence. The aspiration procedure is at times more difficult if tightly adherent or firm cortical material is encountered. The aspiration phase also increases the chance of posterior capsular rupture if the posterior capsule is inadvertently incorporated in the aspiration port. We have been using a simple device manufactured by Occumedics which is capable of either increasing the aspirating force or reversing the direction of flow in the aspiration line (Fig. 1). The small-capacity squeeze bulb which is present in the aspiration line of the Cavitron tubing has been replaced by an insert that allows the incorporation of a syringe into the aspiration system.