DisCoVisc versus the soft-shell technique using Viscoat and Provisc in phacoemulsification: randomized clinical trial

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Biomaterials in Surgery

Background:

• Phacoemulsification requires effective viscoelastic agents to protect intraocular tissues.
• Traditional soft-shell techniques often involve multiple agents, such as Viscoat and Provisc.
• DisCoVisc, a newer formulation, aims to simplify the process with a single agent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of DisCoVisc against the combined Viscoat and Provisc soft-shell technique during phacoemulsification.
• To evaluate postoperative corneal changes, including pachymetry and endothelial cell density (ECD).
• To assess anterior segment inflammation following the use of these viscoelastic agents.

Main Methods:

• A prospective randomized clinical trial involving 100 eyes undergoing phacoemulsification.
• Eyes were randomized to receive either DisCoVisc (Group 1) or a combination of Viscoat and Provisc (Group 2).
• Preoperative and postoperative measurements included corneal thickness, ECD, coefficient of variation (CV), and inflammation.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences were observed in central corneal thickness (CCT) between the DisCoVisc and combined Viscoat/Provisc groups at 1 day, 7 days, and 1 month postoperatively.
• Endothelial cell density (ECD) and coefficient of variation (CV) showed no significant differences between the groups at 3 months.
• No significant changes in ECD or corneal thickness were noted from preoperative values at any postoperative follow-up point.

Conclusions:

• A single injection of DisCoVisc is an effective option in phacoemulsification.
• Postoperative outcomes of DisCoVisc are comparable to the combined use of Viscoat and Provisc.
• DisCoVisc offers a potentially simpler alternative for viscoelastic protection during cataract surgery.