Comparison of Surgical Parameters Using Different Lens Fragmentation Patterns in Eyes Undergoing Refractive Laser–Assisted Cataract Surgery
Purpose
To evaluate and compare surgical parameters and safety among eyes undergoing refractive laser-assisted cataract surgery (RELACS) using different lens fragmentation patterns (LFP).
Methods
Prospective open clinical trial of 31 consecutive eyes undergoing RELACS using a single femtosecond laser (Lensar) but different LFP: Group A, 3-plane chop (n = 15); Group B: 3-plane chop plus pie-cut pattern (n = 16). Group C (controls) underwent conventional phacoemulsification (PE) (n=19). All surgeries were performed using a 3-plane prechop technique, by the same surgeon and PE machine (Centurion, Alcon Surgica). Main outcome measures: Pentacam-graded nuclear density, mean PE time, mean PE power, mean cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), mean BSS fluid volume, mean operative time and adverse events. ANOVA and chi-square analyses.
Results
Ongoing study. We present here the results of the first 50 eyes; results will be updated. All eyes underwent successful cataract surgery using the femtosecond laser platform. The 3 groups were comparable in terms of nuclear density (P = 0.760), PE power (P=0.116), BSS fluid volume (P=0.364) and operative time (P=0.999). Compared to Group C (controls), Group B (3-plane plus pie-cut pattern) surgeries utilized significantly less PE time (P=0.017) and CDE (P=0.002). No adverse events were observed in all groups on the first postoperative day.
Conclusion
The FS laser was safe and effective for cataract surgery. Compared to conventional PE, RELACS with 3-plane chop plus pie-cut pattern utilized less PE time and CDE. The 3-plane chop plus pie-cut pattern was more efficient compared to 3-plane chop alone. The clinical benefits of these differences should be investigated.