Forceps-puncture continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis

Refractive cataract surgery

Today, cataract surgeons can control postoperative refraction after cataract removal with improved intraocular-lens calculation formulas and minimal invasive surgery. However, a physiologically healthy status of the human lens (transparency, accommodation) cannot yet be regained completely postoperatively. Refractional outcome should be planned by the surgeon according to the patient's requirements. The preoperative planning also should include consideration of the intraocular-lens material needed.

Blunt, bent needle for continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis

We describe an anterior continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (CCC) technique that uses a dull needle. The needle's blunt tip prevents inadvertent tearing of the anterior capsule, and its rough surface allows the surgeon to transmit a power vector of different amplitude and direction to the edge of the capsulorhexis to continue the tear as desired. For biomechanical reasons, we prefer an arcade-shaped CCC because this configuration provides a greater circumference than a circular CCC. The blunt needle allows one to perform a single-step capsulorhexis in a safe and controlled manner and reduces surgical time. Even in cases of white and liquified cortex, the dull needle has proved a useful, safe tool.