A Comparative Study of Direct-Chop versus Stop- And-Chop Techniques of Phacoemulsification

Abstract

Background: The most exciting innovation in cataract surgery in the 20 century is the technique of phacoemulsification, introduced by Kelman. Its principal advantage is the small incision size, less postoperative pain and less surgically induced astigmatism. Many variations in its techniques have been described. Among them stop-and-chop and phaco-chop are most popular. Hence the aim of this study is to compare the results in these two nucleotomy techniques.

Methods: A prospective interventional study was carried out for 1year.140 patients with PSC NS1-2 underwent detailed history and ocular examination. They were divided into 2 groups to undergo phacoemulsification surgery by direct chop and Stop and chop respectively with similar machine parameters. Intraoperatively EPT noted. Visual acuity at 4 weeks recorded.

Results: Mean age was 61.06 years in Group 1 and 63.85years in Group 2. There were 19(27.1%) cases with PSC NS1 and 51(72.8%) cases with PSC NS2 in both groups. Mean EPT was 2.55s and 2.59s respectively. Of 70 patients in each group, 68(97.1%) in Group 1 and 69(98.5%) in Group 2 achieved BCVA of 6/6-6/9 at the end of 4 weeks.

Conclusion: The study concluded that both the techniques are equally efficacious and comparable in cataracts with PSC NS1-2. The choice of technique should be based on cataract density, surgeon’s expertise, and individual patient factors. Continued advancements in phacoemulsification technology will further refine surgical outcomes and improve patient safety.