Femtosecond Laser-assisted Cataract Surgery Technique to Enhance Safety in Posterior Polar Cataract.

PURPOSE: To describe the technique of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery for management of posterior polar cataracts.

METHODS: The technique was performed in 25 eyes of 20 patients with posterior polar cataract and nuclear sclerosis grades II to III. A hybrid pattern of three cylinders (2, 4, and 6 mm) and three chops (6 mm in length) was used for nucleotomy. Block by block emulsification of the pre-chopped nucleus was done from the center outward, with the remaining outer rings acting as a protective cushion. Manual hydrodissection and hydrodelineation were avoided.

RESULTS: There were no cases with posterior capsular tear in this series and the phacoemulsification procedure could be completed uneventfully with implantation of intraocular lens in the bag in all of the eyes. The postoperative uncorrected Snellen visual acuity was 20/25 or greater in all cases.

CONCLUSION: The technique of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery with a hybrid pattern of cylinder and chop is safe and effective in managing cases of posterior polar cataract, specifically for higher grades of nuclear sclerosis.