phakoemulsification


phac·o·e·mul·si·fi·ca·tion

, phakoemulsification (fak'ō-ē-mŭl-si-fi-kā'shŭn) A method of emulsifying and aspirating a cataract with a low-frequency ultrasonic needle.

phakoemulsification

A method of cataract surgery in which the opaque lens is broken up within its capsule into tiny particles by ultrasonic vibration of a fine probe inserted into the eye. At the same time irrigation fluid is passed into and out of the capsule carrying with it the emulsified lens matter. Following complete removal of the lens in this way a replacement plastic lens is slipped into the capsule. If a foldable soft lens is used, the entire procedure may be conducted through a very short incision which does not require to be stitched. Considerable technological advances in recent years have made the procedure safer and more reliable