Resident phacoemulsification experience using the in situ nuclear fracture technique

We retrospectively reviewed all of the 176 phacoemulsification procedures attempted by two third-year residents from July 1, 1991 to June 30, 1992. The in situ nuclear fracture technique was performed in 131 eyes; a nonfracture technique in 45. Overall, the rate of vitreous loss was 4.5% (8 of 176). The rate of vitreous loss associated with the in situ nuclear fracture technique was 3.1% (4 of 135); with the nonfracture technique, 8.9%. We conclude that phacoemulsification can be learned and performed by residents with vitreous loss rates comparable to those reported for extracapsular cataract extraction.