Intraocular pressure study using monitored forced-infusion system phacoemulsification technology

Abstract

To optimize phacoemulsification efficiency by varying the intraocular pressure (IOP) usingthe Centurion Vision System, a monitored forced-infusion system. John A. Moran Eye Center Laboratories, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Laboratory investigation. Porcine lenses were soaked in formalin and divided into 2.0mm cubes; 0.9mm balanced tips were used. Intraocular pressure levels were tested from 30 to 110mm Hg at 10mm Hg intervals. Vacuum was set at 500mm Hg, aspiration at 35mL/min, and torsional power at 60%. Efficiency (time to lens removal) and chatter (number of lens fragment repulsions from the tip) were measured. There was a linear relationship between efficiency and IOP. Increasing IOP led to an increase in efficiency (ie, to a decrease in time necessary to remove the lens fragment) (R(2)=.5769, P=.0176). Chatter correlated with IOP in the range of 30 to 50mm Hg (R(2)=.4506, P=.0448) and was minimal at higher IOPs. Increasing IOP in the monitored forced-infusion system improved efficiency. Chatter was also decreased or eliminated with increasing IOP. Additional studies will be required to understand the reasons for these findings. None of the authors has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.