Sodium hyaluronate (Healon) in anterior segment surgery: a review and a new use in extracapsular surgery

The use of sodium hyaluronate (Healon) has made an impact on anterior segment surgery. Healon's uses are varied, but protecting the corneal endothelium and maintaining anterior chamber depth are its main contributions. I have found Healon helpful in planned extracapsular cataract surgery by allowing the nucleus to "rise" on a bed of this viscoelastic substance, permitting easier and safer delivery.