Chief & Presenting Author: Dr.K. Subashini

Abstract

Phacoemulsification in hard cataracts is straightforward today due to advanced systems. However, managing soft, cortical cataracts without nuclear changes remains challenging. While the flip technique works well for young patients, older patients with cortical cataracts present a real challenge. This video demonstrates the 'Stop and Silently Chop' technique, avoiding power and vacuum to chop the soft cataract into easily aspirated pieces. After thorough hydrodissection, a narrow long trench or small central trench is sculpted and cracked. The soft nucleus is rotated 180 degrees, and the phaco probe is inserted into the hemi-nucleus without phaco energy or vacuum. Using a chopper or Sinskey hook as the second instrument, the nucleus is mechanically split by drawing the second instrument towards the probe. The nucleus is rotated to access the other half, and the same technique is applied. The 'Stop and Silently Chop' technique conserves time, phaco energy, and the surgeon's energy.