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OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser for removal of the human cataract. DESIGN: A multicenter, prospective, noncomparative study. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 100 consecutive eyes undergoing cataract extraction with the Dodick photolysis Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Corneal endothelial cell loss, visual acuity improvement, intraocular pressure change, total intraocular energy used, and intraoperative and postoperative complications. RESULTS: The mean values were postoperative visual acuity improvement from 20/46.5 (0.43) to 20/26.6 (0.75), decrease in endothelial cell count of 177 cells/mm2 (7.55%), and intraocular energy used of 6.7 J. Minor complications were encountered in three cases. CONCLUSIONS: These data suggest that Dodick photolysis may be a safe and effective new technology for cataract removal in human eyes. It appears to offer low intraocular energy and heat release, a clear-cornea incision of less than 1.5 mm in size, and safe operation within the capsular bag.
Dr. J. Kanellopoulos, Cornea Transplantation Service, Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital, 1173A 2nd Avenue, Suite 232, New York, NY 10021; USA
12.12.3 Phacoemulsification (Part of: 12 Surgical treatment > 12.12 Cataract extraction)