Energy Output Variability Among Phacoemulsification Tips Using Calorimetry
Ivan A Cardenas1,2, Reiker G Ricks1,2, Jenna L Jensen1,2
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, John a Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
Medical Devices (Auckland, N.Z.)
|October 9, 2025
Summary
Different phacoemulsification (phaco) tips significantly impact thermal energy output during cataract surgery. Balanced tips generated the most heat, while Dewey tips produced the least, influencing potential thermal injury risks.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Technology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Phacoemulsification is a common cataract surgery technique.
- Thermal energy generated by phacoemulsification tips can cause ocular tissue damage.
- Understanding tip-specific thermal output is crucial for surgical safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and compare the thermal energy output of different phacoemulsification tips.
- To determine if variations in tip design affect heat production during surgery.
Main Methods:
- Utilized calorimetry to measure thermal energy output.
- Tested Alcon Centurion with Infiniti OZil handpiece using balanced, hybrid, and Dewey A1 mini tips.
- Standardized settings (100% power, continuous torsional/longitudinal ultrasound, 0mmHg vacuum, 12mL/min flow) for 1-minute trials.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in thermal energy output (Joules) were observed between all tested tips in both ultrasound modes.
- Balanced tips exhibited the highest thermal output; Dewey tips showed the lowest.
- Longitudinal mode increased thermal output for hybrid tips but decreased it for Dewey tips.
Conclusions:
- Phacoemulsification tip design significantly influences thermal energy production.
- Findings offer insights into the mechanisms of thermal injury during cataract surgery.
- Surgeons should consider tip-specific thermal variability to mitigate risks.
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