Phaco Tip 140:
The One-handed Rhexis

Many surgeons use both hands to hold/position the capsulorhexis forceps during the creation of the capsulotomy. Under topical anesthesia, however, the patient is free to move their eye significantly and thus effect the accuracy of the procedure. This undesirable movement can be eliminated by placement of a second instrument such as a blunt spatula through the sideport incision. Doing so requires that the capsulorhexis forceps be held with only one hand.

This technique should first be used in patients who do not exhibit excessive eye movement. The skill developed will prove invaluable when future patients who experience difficulty maintaining fixation are encountered.

* Phaco Tip TM of Richard J. Mackool, M.D.

The parameters (instrument settings) and incision size presented here have been established by the surgeon and do not reflect recommendations by Alcon.