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Phaco Machines in Ophthalmology

Posted by Laser Locators

Definition

Phacoemulsification surgery is a procedure in which a device is used to remove a cataract from the eye to improve vision. The insertion of an IOL typically follows this procedure.

While speaking within the industry, this procedure is commonly referred to as “phaco.”

Purpose

Phacoemulsification, or phaco, is used to restore vision in patients whose lens has become cloudy. In the early stage of a cataract, people may notice slight cloudiness since it only affects a tiny portion of the lens. When the cataract grows, the vision becomes cloudier. As vision gradually gets worse, the doctor will recommend surgery, typically phaco, to restore vision. With advancements in cataract procedures such as the Inter-Ocular Lens, patients can experience incredible vision improvement.

Description

Phacoemulsification is a type of extracapsular cataract extraction, a procedure that involves removing the lens and the front portion of the capsule. The old extracapsular extraction method involves a long incision, about 0.4 inches (10mm), or about half of the eye. Recovery from the large incision extracapsular extraction requires almost a week-long hospital stay and limited activity for several weeks.

Charles Kelman created phacoemulsification in the 1960s. His primary goal was to remove the cataract with a small incision, less pain, and shortened recovery time. He found that a cataract could be broken up into smaller pieces using an ultrasonic tip. At first, phaco wasn’t very popular because it was a difficult skill to master. With the success rate and short recovery time, surgeons gradually adopted the procedure. Over the years, surgeons have refined phaco to make it safer. Innovations in technology like the foldable IOL have helped improve success rates by allowing surgeons to make much smaller incisions.

Most surgeons have a preferred technique; however, they might vary due to the cataract’s density and size. Some surgeons

prefer to “chop,” while others will divide and conquer the cataract before removal. Another procedure, called the “phaco flip”, involves inverting and rotating the lens before removal.

Systems

Johnson & Johnson AMO COMPACT INTUITIV Phacoemulsification

The COMPACT INTUITIV System is designed to offer flexibility for your practice. The system has advanced, real-time chamber stability technology designed to maintain IOP and provide excellent control. Other features include small-bore, flexible tubing for superior control and exceptional chamber stability. The most impressive part of this model is its size. It is a tiny box weighing less than 60 lbs and has been known to be easily transported for mission trips, mobile surgery centers, and more.

Bausch & Lomb Stellaris PC

Surgeons seeking one system that can handle anterior, posterior, and combined procedures should consider the Bausch & Lomb Stellaris PC System. The system’s advanced lighting and tapered valved cannulas will make the most challenging vitrectomy procedures much more comfortable.

The Stellaris PC system provides a high-performance experience that demonstrates Bausch & Lomb’s expertise in vitreoretinal surgery with the Stellaris phaco system’s features.

The Stellaris PC is a compact and mobile unit with a full suite of surgical packs and instruments. It is a versatile platform that allows surgeons the flexibility to perform different procedures while saving valuable time. Some of the later model Stellaris PCs can also have a 532nm green laser built inside the system as an additional feature.

Alcon Centurion Vision System

The CENTURION sets a high standard of performance in cataract surgery by combining multiple phaco technologies and other key features, including:

Active Fluidics Technology, an automatic system that optimizes anterior chamber stability by enabling users to proactively set and maintain intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye during the cataract removal.

Balanced Energy Technology improves efficiency through Ozil Intelligent Phaco and the INTREPID Balanced Tip probes. This increases control while reducing energy levels and allowing the surgeon to adjust settings for aspiration and vacuum by keeping the lens material’s fragments at the shearing plane during the emulsification.

Applied Integration is a cutting-edge design that enables the new system to be seamlessly integrated with multiple cataract surgical technologies, like Alcon’s LuxOR Surgical Microscopes with Q-VUE 3-D assistant and the LenSx Laser to create a comprehensive cataract surgery suite designed to minimize variability at every step of the procedure.

Laser Locators specializes in the preventative maintenance and refurbishment of all types of phaco systems. Whether you are only looking to service an existing device or want to take your practice to the next level, think of us first.

Contact us today for a complimentary consultation on how you can improve your ophthalmic practice.

jo**@la***********.com

by Joey Colarulo, Vice President

About Joey Colarulo linkedin button What is the Norlase LEAF

Vice President

Joey has been the Vice President of Laser Locators since March 2015 and a Managing Partner since 2012. He joined the company in 2011.

Joey has significantly contributed to Laser Locators’ growth, including the development of a full service and parts department. He has streamlined the sales and procurement departments by redeveloping processes and implementing new systems. Through Joey’s efforts, Laser Locators has tripled its sales volume and added 13 new positions.

Joey has over 20 years of experience in global internet sales and marketing. His expertise in analyzing the marketplace and leverage the latest e-commerce technologies has enabled Joey to drive exponential sales growth year over year.

Originally from Philadelphia, Joey earned his Bachelor’s degree in Financial Management and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Rowan University.

Outside of work, Joey is involved in the Westchase Charitable Foundation, a local non-profit that provides direct assistance to those in need. His interests include vintage BMWs and rare sports cards.

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