Comparing the Efficacy Between Entry-Level Torsional and High-End Transverse Phacoemulsification Technologies.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Technology
• Cataract Surgery

Background:

• Phacoemulsification is a key cataract surgery technique.
• Comparing torsional and transverse phacoemulsification technologies is crucial for optimizing surgical outcomes and cost-effectiveness.
• Evaluating entry-level devices against high-end systems aids informed clinical decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the intraoperative efficacy of torsional versus transverse phacoemulsification technologies.
• To assess the clinical outcomes and efficiency of an entry-level torsional system against a high-end transverse system.
• To determine if affordable phacoemulsification devices can provide uncompromised clinical care.

Main Methods:

• Prospective comparative study with quasi-random allocation involving 120 eyes with immature cataracts.
• Phacoemulsification performed using either an entry-level torsional or a high-end transverse system by the same surgeon.
• Preoperative and postoperative assessments included specular microscopy, pachymetry, and best-corrected visual acuity; intraoperative data and surgical videos were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The torsional system used 47.12% less ultrasound time (p < 0.001) and 5.15% less surgical time (p = 0.056).
• Torsional phacoemulsification demonstrated reduced chatter, better followability, and easier quadrant removal.
• No significant differences were observed in postoperative visual acuity, pachymetry, or endothelial cell density between the groups.

Conclusions:

• The torsional phacoemulsification system is more efficient, requiring less ultrasound energy and marginally shorter surgical time.
• The entry-level torsional system offers improved ease and efficiency in phacoemulsification compared to the transverse system.
• Affordable phacoemulsification technologies can deliver optimal clinical results, supporting cost-effective cataract surgery.