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Thyroid tumors with abundant adipose tissue component are rare, reportedly accounting for 0.98-2.8% of all thyroid nodules, and include entities such as thyroid lipoadenoma and thyroid carcinoma with lipomatous stroma (TCLS). They may be encountered on fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB), which is widely used in evaluation of thyroid nodules. However, due to their relative rarity, adipose elements rarely are recognized preoperatively in these tumors. Herein, we report two cases of thyroid tumors with abundant adipose tissue, along with cytologic, histologic, and ultrasonographic features. Although an intermixture of adipose tissue and thyroid follicular cells is the key cytologic feature of thyroid tumors with adipose stroma, other cytologic findings, such as abundant fat droplets or isolated fragments of adipose tissue, also should raise the possibility of a fat-containing tumor, particularly when a biopsy is performed by a cytopathologist under ultrasonographic guidance and adequate radiologic-pathologic correlation. Cytopathologists should be aware that overlooking lesional adipose tissue within a thyroid neoplasm might give the false impression of a non-diagnostic or sparsely cellular FNAB specimen.

We describe the essential steps in the successful phacoemulsification of the rock-hard, dense cataract. Appropriate and directed preoperative history, physical examination, and diagnostics allow the surgeon to select the best incision, anesthesia, and intended surgical technique for a given dense nuclear challenge. Hard nucleus-specific approaches for hydrodissection, pupil management, and zonular protection then allow the surgeon to approach the rock-hard nucleus with maximum safety. Dense nuclear dismantling options are then discussed in detail along with fluidic and power modulation considerations. Various specific phacoemusification machine settings for rock-hard cataracts from the authors representing several different phaco systems are then presented. The combination of these steps and considerations allow a more successful dense cataract removal and potential restoration of vision for patients. This paper represents the collective experience and advice of the Challenging and Complex Cataract Surgery Subcommittee.

Purpose To expand understanding of presentation, diagnosis, and outcomes of hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis (HORV). Design Retrospective case series. Participants Thirty-six eyes of 23 patients. Methods The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) and the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) formed a joint task force to define clinical characteristics of HORV and to study its prevalence, cause, treatment, and outcomes. An online registry was established on both societies' web sites. Surveys were e-mailed to members of both societies soliciting cases of suspected HORV. A literature search was performed to uncover additional cases. Main Outcome Measures Historical data including intraoperative characteristics, images, treatment regimens, and visual and anatomic outcomes. Results Characteristic findings of HORV included unremarkable postoperative day 1 undilated examination, delayed-onset painless vision loss, mild anterior chamber and vitreous inflammation, sectoral retinal hemorrhages in areas of ischemia, and predilection for venules and peripheral involvement. Based on predetermined diagnostic criteria, 36 eyes of 23 patients were diagnosed with HORV. All eyes received intraocular vancomycin via intracameral bolus (33/36), via intravitreal injection (1/36), or through the irrigation bottle (2/36). Patients sought treatment with HORV 1 to 21 days after surgery or intravitreal injection. Visual results usually were poor: 22 of 36 eyes (61%) had 20/200 or worse visual acuity and 8 of 36 eyes (22%) had no light perception (NLP). Neovascular glaucoma developed in 20 of 36 eyes (56%). Seven eyes received additional intravitreal vancomycin after surgery; 5 of these 7 eyes had NLP visual acuity at the most recent examination. Three eyes received intravitreal corticosteroids and had final visual acuities of 20/40, 20/70, and hand movements. Conclusions Hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis is a rare, potentially devastating condition that can develop after cataract surgery or intraocular injection. All cases in this series were associated with intraocular vancomycin. Disease course and findings suggest that HORV is caused by a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to vancomycin. Early treatment with corticosteroids likely is beneficial. Subsequently, anti–vascular endothelial growth factor injections and panretinal photocoagulation are important to prevent neovascular glaucoma, a common complication. Avoidance of additional intravitreal vancomycin is recommended if HORV is suspected.

Pendred syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by hearing loss and goiter and is caused by bi-allelic mutations (homozygous or compound heterozygous) of the PDS (SLC26A4) gene. The incidence of Pendred syndrome is 7.5-10/100,000 in the general population, and it carries a 1 % risk of developing thyroid carcinoma. Herein, we report a case of a patient with Pendred syndrome who developed a follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPTC)-that is approximately at an odd of 1/1,000,000. Targeted next-generation sequencing with ThyroSeq v2 was performed on the tumor, and only a TP53 mutation (TP53 p.R175H) was identified. The mutation was limited to the tumor nodule of FVPTC as shown by immunohistochemistry. This report represents the first extensive molecular study of a Pendred syndrome-associated thyroid carcinoma. The evidences support that thyroid carcinomas arising from dyshormonogenetic goiter require additional genetic alteration in addition to the purported thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) overstimulation. It is intrigue to note that the mutant p53 is involved in the development of a low-grade malignant thyroid tumor as FVPTC in this patient.

Posterior polar cataracts present a unique challenge for the cataract surgeon. This review describes the steps a surgeon can take to overcome these challenges for the successful phacoemulsification of the posterior polar cataract. Proper preoperative examination and diagnostics will allow appropriate preoperative counseling and surgical planning to increase the likelihood of success. Specific techniques for each stage of the procedure are described, all with the aim of protecting the posterior capsule and preserving intraocular lens (IOL) fixation options. Posterior polar cataracts present dilemmas in preoperative evaluation, surgical management, and IOL fixation.

The current method for implantation of the Ex-PRESS Glaucoma Filtration Device requires a conjunctival peritomy and shunt insertion under the guarded protection of a scleral flap. This technique requires suture closure of the flap and conjunctiva. A new minimally invasive technique for Ex-PRESS shunt implanta- tion allows for insertion through a scleral tunnel originating from a grooved clear corneal incision. This new method avoids the need for conjunctival dissection and closure and offers the advantages of eliminating conjunctival wound leaks while maintaining the pro- tection of a partial thickness scleral covering. This new technique may offer a faster safer means for shunt implantation with the potential for less conjunctival scarring.

The surgical management of ectopia lentis presents the ophthalmic surgeon with numerous challenges and options. From the clinical evaluation to the surgical approach, ectopia lentis patients require additional methodologies, techniques, and devices to ensure the best possible outcome. The continued refinement of surgical techniques and adjunctive prosthetic devices has led to incremental improvements in the ability to achieve successful in-the-bag placement and centration of intraocular lenses while reducing complications. A thorough understanding of the challenges inherent in ectopia lentis cases and the management of intraoperative complications will ensure that surgeons approaching the correction of these eyes will achieve the best possible surgical results.

To expand understanding of presentation, diagnosis, and outcomes of hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis (HORV).Retrospective case series.Thirty-six eyes of 23 patients.The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) and the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) formed a joint task force to define clinical characteristics of HORV and to study its prevalence, cause, treatment, and outcomes. An online registry was established on both societies' web sites. Surveys were e-mailed to members of both societies soliciting cases of suspected HORV. A literature search was performed to uncover additional cases.Historical data including intraoperative characteristics, images, treatment regimens, and visual and anatomic outcomes.Characteristic findings of HORV included unremarkable postoperative day 1 undilated examination, delayed-onset painless vision loss, mild anterior chamber and vitreous inflammation, sectoral retinal hemorrhages in areas of ischemia, and predilection for venules and peripheral involvement. Based on predetermined diagnostic criteria, 36 eyes of 23 patients were diagnosed with HORV. All eyes received intraocular vancomycin via intracameral bolus (33/36), via intravitreal injection (1/36), or through the irrigation bottle (2/36). Patients sought treatment with HORV 1 to 21 days after surgery or intravitreal injection. Visual results usually were poor: 22 of 36 eyes (61%) had 20/200 or worse visual acuity and 8 of 36 eyes (22%) had no light perception (NLP). Neovascular glaucoma developed in 20 of 36 eyes (56%). Seven eyes received additional intravitreal vancomycin after surgery; 5 of these 7 eyes had NLP visual acuity at the most recent examination. Three eyes received intravitreal corticosteroids and had final visual acuities of 20/40, 20/70, and hand movements.Hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis is a rare, potentially devastating condition that can develop after cataract surgery or intraocular injection. All cases in this series were associated with intraocular vancomycin. Disease course and findings suggest that HORV is caused by a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to vancomycin. Early treatment with corticosteroids likely is beneficial. Subsequently, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections and panretinal photocoagulation are important to prevent neovascular glaucoma, a common complication. Avoidance of additional intravitreal vancomycin is recommended if HORV is suspected.

Subluxated cataractous and clear lenses are commonly treated by limbal or pars plana lensectomy followed by primary or secondary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Adjunctive capsular prosthetic devices have facilitated lens removal and IOL centration in these challenging cases but have also added complexity and potential complications to the procedure. Although crystalline lens extraction may be required to clear the visual axis in mild to moderate lens subluxations, we propose insertion of a primary anterior chamber IOL without lens extraction in severe subluxations when the eye is optically aphakic or can be made functionally aphakic following neodymium:YAG laser zonulysis. Two cases demonstrating this approach are presented.

We present an unusual case of persistent interface fluid that would not resolve despite normal intraocular pressure and corneal endothelial replacement with Descemet-stripping endothelial keratoplasty. Dissection, elevation, and repositioning of the laser in situ keratomileusis flap were required to resolve the interface fluid. Circumferential corneal graft-host margin scar formation acting as a mechanical strut may have been the cause of the intractable interface fluid.

Purpose To examine the profile of clear corneal cataract incisions in the living eye using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Setting Private practice, Eugene, Oregon, USA. Methods The Zeiss Visante OCT anterior segment imaging system was used to study the profile of clear corneal cataract incisions, all in senior citizens. The OCT images of the operative eye were taken on the first postoperative day approximately 24 hours after surgery. The OCT images of clear corneal incisions were compared with an OCT image of a control eye, incisions without stromal hydration, and previous drawings of clear corneal incisions. Results In the images, the clear corneal incisions had an arcuate configuration rather than a straight line configuration, as previously indicated. This architecture appears to add greater stability as a result of a tongue-and-groove-like fit of the floor to the roof of the incision as well as an incision that is longer than the chord length that had previously been measured. Other findings include that stromal swelling, which facilitates sealing of these incisions by the endothelial pump, lasted for at least 24 hours. Conclusions Results indicate an incision in the plane of the cornea with a chord length of at least 2.0 mm provides advantageous architecture for adequate self-sealing. Proper clear corneal incision construction resulted in an incision architecture that seemed to have increased stability and added safety, contributing to an absence of endophthalmitis for more than 10 years and 9000 cases in a single practice.

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have become an important adjunctive tool for surgeons performing routine and complicated cataract surgery. These medications have been found to reduce pain, prevent intraoperative miosis, modulate postoperative inflammation, and reduce the incidence of cystoid macular edema (CME). Whether used alone, synergistically with steroids, or for specific high-risk eyes prone to the development of CME, the effectiveness of these medications is compelling. This review describes the potential preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative uses of NSAIDs, including the potency, indications and treatment paradigms and adverse effects and contraindications. A thorough understanding of these issues will help surgeons maximize the therapeutic benefits of these agents and improve surgical outcomes. Financial Disclosure Proprietary or commercial disclosures are listed after the references.

The surgical management of cataract in the small eye presents the ophthalmic surgeon with numerous challenges. An understanding of the anatomic classification in addition to a thorough preoperative assessment will help individualize each case and enable the surgeon to better prepare for the obstacles that might be encountered during surgery. Small eyes are especially challenging in terms of intraocular lens (IOL) calculations and possible current limitations of available IOL powers, which could necessitate alternative means of achieving emmetropia. Surgical strategies for minimizing complications and maximizing good outcomes can be developed from knowledge of the anatomic differences between various small-eye conditions and the pathologies that may be associated with each. A thorough understanding of the challenges inherent in these cases and the management of intraoperative and postoperative complications will ensure that surgeons approaching the correction of these eyes will achieve the best possible surgical results. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Scleral fixation of intraocular lenses (IOLs) and adjunctive capsular devices can be performed under the protection of a scleral flap. A modification of this technique uses a scleral pocket initiated through a peripheral clear corneal incision. Full-thickness passage of a double-armed suture through the scleral pocket and conjunctiva, with subsequent retrieval of the suture ends through the external incision for tying, facilitates scleral fixation. This modification offers several advantages over traditional methods: It eliminates the need for conjunctival dissection and scleral cauterization; a scleral pocket affords a greater surface area for suture placement through an ab externo or ab interno approach; retrieval of the sutures through the external corneal incision and subsequent tying allows the suture knot to pass under the protective roof of the scleral pocket, negating the need for suture knot rotation; and the architecture of the scleral pocket eliminates the need for sutured wound closure. Suture retrieval and scleral fixation through a corneoscleral pocket offers a refined method for fixation of IOLs and other intraocular adjunctive devices.

Scleral fixation of intraocular lenses (IOLs) can be performed under the protection of a scleral flap. A variation of this technique uses a scleral tunnel for suture fixation to the eye. Passage of a double-armed suture through the roof of the scleral tunnel with subsequent retrieval of the suture ends through the external incision for tying facilitates scleral fixation. This modification offers several advantages: A scleral tunnel is easier to construct than a triangular flap and does not require suture closure. It affords a greater surface area for suture placement through an ab externo or ab interno approach. Tying each suture allows the suture knot to pass under the roof of the tunnel, eliminating the need for suture knot rotation. Suture retrieval and scleral fixation through a scleral tunnel incision offers a simplified and elegant method for fixation of IOLs and other intraocular adjunctive devices.

Purpose To assess changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) during standard coaxial or bimanual microincision phacoemulsification. Setting Oregon Eye Center, Eugene, Oregon, USA. Methods Bimanual microincision phacoemulsification (microphaco) was performed in 3 cadaver eyes, and standard coaxial phacoemulsification was performed in 1 cadaver eye. A pressure transducer placed in the vitreous cavity recorded IOP at 100 readings per second. The phacoemulsification procedure was broken down into 8 stages, and mean IOP was calculated across each stage. Intraocular pressure was measured during bimanual microphaco through 2 different incision sizes and with and without the Cruise Control (Staar Surgical) connected to the aspiration line. Results Intraocular pressure exceeded 60 mm Hg (retinal perfusion pressure) during both standard coaxial and bimanual microphaco procedures. The highest IOP occurred during hydrodissection, ophthalmic viscosurgical device injection, and intraocular lens insertion. For the 8 stages of the phacoemulsification procedure delineated in this study, IOP was lower for at least 1 of the bimanual microphaco eyes compared with the standard coaxial phaco eye in 4 of the stages (hydro steps, nuclear disassembly, irritation/aspiration, anterior chamber reformation). Conclusion There was no consistent difference in IOP between the bimanual microphaco eyes and the eye that had standard coaxial phacoemulsification. Bimanual microincision phacoemulsification appears to be as safe as standard small incision phacoemulsification with regard to IOP.

Purpose: To demonstrate a potential cause of a prolonged epidemic of diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK). Method: This retrospective review analyzed an epidemic of diffuse lamellar keratitis over a 3-year period in a single surgery center. Altering the brand of surgical gloves used during surgery was associated with an elimination of the DLK epidemic. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were performed on both brands of surgical gloves to allow for comparisons and determine possible surface contaminants responsible for the DLK outbreaks. Results: The incidence of DLK during the epidemic ranged from 2% to 38% on a quarterly basis for the 3-year period. A change in the brand of surgical gloves resulted in a cessation of DLK. Surface analysis of both brands of gloves revealed extensive silicone oil contamination on the internal and external surfaces of the DLK-associated gloves and insignificant amounts of silicone oil on the external surface of the DLK-free gloves. Conclusion: Silicone oil contamination of surgical gloves appears to be associated with epidemic DLK.

Phacoemulsification with mechanical pupil dilation was performed on a functionally monocular glaucoma patient with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. The postoperative course was complicated by persistent intraocular hemorrhaging from the pupil margin in multiple locations that ceased temporarily with a marked elevation in intraocular pressure (IOP). Normalization of IOP with medication or paracentesis resulted in recurrent bleeding and a subsequent increase in IOP elevation. Surgical intervention using bipolar diathermy was required to control the bleeding and the elevated IOP. A bimanual approach allowed the corrective procedure to be performed in a simple and efficacious manner.

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of corneal topography in determining the central corneal refractive power in intraocular lens (IOL) power calculations after incisional and thermal keratorefractive surgery. Setting: Oregon Eye Institute, Eugene, Oregon, USA. Methods: This retrospective review comprised 20 eyes (14 patients) that had cataract extraction with IOL implantation or refractive lens exchange after radial keratotomy, hexagonal keratotomy, or laser thermal keratoplasty. The effective refractive power (EffRP) of the Holladay Diagnostic Summary on the EyeSys Corneal Analysis System was used to determine the central corneal refractive power, which was input into the Holladay 2 IOL calculation formula. Results: Eighty percent of eyes achieved a postoperative spherical equivalent refraction within ±0.50 diopter of emmetropia. Conclusion: The use of the EffRP increases the likelihood of an acceptable refractive outcome after cataract or refractive lens exchange surgery in eyes with a history of keratorefractive surgery.

A 72-year-old man had exchange of a foldable silicone multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) by transection, removal, and monofocal IOL replacement. One month after the exchange, irreversible corneal edema developed and penetrating keratoplasty was performed. At the time of the corneal transplant, a small silicone fragment was discovered in and removed from the anterior chamber. Histologic evaluation of the patient's cornea demonstrated an absence of corneal endothelium, suggesting the fragment was the etiology of the corneal decompensation.

● PURPOSE: To evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of a novel visual prosthetic device, the Implantable Miniature Telescope, IMT (by Dr Isaac Lipshitz) (IMT), in a phase I trial in patients with significant bilateral central vision impairment from late-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The IMT is designed to reduce the relative size of the scotoma by rendering enlarged (threefold) central visual field images over the central and peripheral retina. ● DESIGN: Prospective, multicenter, open-label clinical trial. ● METHODS: In this prospective, multicenter phase I trial, 14 patients aged 60 or older with bilateral geographic atrophy or disciform scar AMD, cataract, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between 20/80 and 20/400 had an IMT implanted in one eye. Distance and near BCVA, endothelial cell density, and quality of life, measured as activities of daily life (ADL), were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. ● RESULTS: At 12 months, 10 (77%) of 13 patients gained 2 more lines of either distance or near BCVA, and eight (62%) of 13 patients gained 3 or more lines in either distance or near BCVA. Mean endothelial cell density decreased by 13%. All adverse events resolved without sequelae. ADL scores improved in the majority of patients. ● CONCLUSION: The results of this phase I trial support further evaluation of the IMT in a larger study population with late-stage AMD. A phase II/III trial is in progress. (Am J Ophthalmol 2004;137:993‐1001.

Bimanual microincision phacoemulsification entails the removal of the crystalline lens through 2 1.2 mm incisions. Infusion is provided through a separate irrigating handpiece, and phacoemulsification and aspiration are performed through a sleeveless phacoemulsification needle. We describe a technique for refractive lens exchange using bimanual microincision phacoemulsification. Capsulorhexis formation, cortical cleaving hydrodissection, lens extraction in the iris plane, and residual cortex removal are performed through the microincisions. This technique offers improved surgeon control throughout the procedure and added safety by maintaining continuous pressurization of the eye while removing the lens far from the posterior capsule.

In this technique for managing posterior polar cataract, extreme care is taken not to overpressurize the anterior chamber or capsular bag to prevent posterior capsule rupture. Minimal hydrodissection and hydrodelineation are performed. The nucleus is extracted using minimal ultrasound energy. Viscodissection is used as a primary technique to mobilize the epinucleus and cortex. A protective layer is preserved over the posterior polar region until the conclusion of the extraction procedure to minimize the risk of loss of lens material into the vitreous cavity in the case of a capsule defect.

To examine recent developments in the field of phacoemulsification, a literature review was conducted for each system described. the review included peer- reviewed articles, information from manufacturers, and meeting presentations by surgeons. our personal experience with systems we have used forms the underlying basis of our evaluation. data for erbium: YAG laser phacoemulsification came from an interim summary of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration monitored study. Data for NeoSoniX came from a prospective evaluation of phacoemulsification in 25 eyes performed at the Oregon Eye Surgery Center. The development of new technology has allowed safer, more efficient phacoemulsification. Each surgeon should evaluate new developments to achieve the greatest possible benefit for patients.

The prevention of posterior segment complications of cataract surgery depends on the maintenance of an intact lens capsule and zonular apparatus. The phacoemulsification techniques presented here, including cortical cleaving hydrodissection, hydrodelineation, ultrasound power modulation, and management of the epinucleus and cortex, together with the special techniques presented for management of small pupils and compromised zonule, minimize the risk of damage to the posterior capsule by maximizing control of nuclear disassembly and evacuation. Choo-choo chop and flip phacoemulsification, in particular, provides a management strategy for cataracts of all grades of nuclear hardness whether in the presence of a small pupil or compromised zonule.

Phacoemulsification in the presence of pseudoexfoliation of the lens presents surgeons with particular challenges. The frequency of intraoperative and postoperative complications such as zonular dialysis, capsular tears, vitreous loss, and intraocular lens (IOL) decentration may be reduced with careful attention to detail and careful surgical technique. Improvements in phacoemulsification technology, IOLs, and new capsular supporting rings allow surgeons to perform safer surgery in these eyes. We present the challenges of and options for managing cataract extraction in the presence of pseudoexfoliation.

A long, slender filarial nematode was removed from the left anterior chamber of a resident of Oregon after several days of pain and blurred vision. The worm was identified as an Onchocerca, but it could not be further identified. This worm is the third zoonotic Onchocerca removed from the anterior chamber and the second case reported from the United States. Cases of zoonotic onchocerciasis continue to garner attention, and those cases affecting the eye are of particular interest.

A 64-year-old phakic patient had a trabeculectomy complicated by complete shallowing of the anterior chamber 10 days postoperatively. Despite repair of a conjunctival wound dehiscence and reformation of the anterior chamber with sodium hyaluronate 3.0%−chondroitin sulfate 4.0% (Viscoat®), he had a flat anterior chamber again the following day with 360 degrees of pupillary synechias and lens-to-cornea touch. Sodium hyaluronate 2.3% (Healon®5) instilled through a paracentesis at the slitlamp lysed the synechias, stabilized the anterior chamber, facilitated filtration, and prevented complications from hypotony. The unique properties of Healon5 allowed for a conservative and less invasive approach in the management of this particular complication.

Purpose To assess the incidence of epithelial ingrowth after laser in situ keratomileusis and its correlation with myopic or hyperopic treatment. Methods This retrospective study analyzed 1000 consecutive LASIK procedures performed by 3 surgeons using identical surgical technique with a Hansatome microkeratome. Eyes that developed epithelial ingrowth were evaluated using the Machat grading system. Patients were subdivided into 2 groups (myopic or hyperopic) based on the preoperative refractive error. Results The total incidence of epithelial ingrowth was 4.7%. The incidence after primary treatment was 3.9%. The incidence after enhancement was 12.8%. The total incidence of epithelial ingrowth was 3% in the myopic group compared with 23% in the hyperopic group. After primary myopic treatment, there was a 3% incidence of epithelial ingrowth compared with 17% after primary hyperopic treatment. The incidence after enhancement was 7% in the myopic group and 43% in the hyperopic group. Conclusions Patients undergoing hyperopic laser in situ keratomileusis have a greater incidence of epithelial ingrowth than those undergoing myopic treatment. In addition, enhancement procedures have a higher incidence than primary procedures.

Innovative design concepts incorporated into the Stellaris Vision Enhancement System make it a superlative choice for MICS. These concepts include monitoring and maintenance of fluidic parameters, millisecond level surgeon control of ultrasound power and ergonomic comfort and adaptability for any surgical technique. The Stellaris Vision Enhancement System is safe and effective for BMICS and CMICS. The advantages of BMICS include enhanced surgical flexibility and control made possible by separation of inflow and outflow. The CMICS solution enables the incision to be decreased to 1.8 mm without any change in the current coaxial phaco technique.

The advantages of micro incision phaco outweigh any increased difficulty or complications that occur during a surgeon's early experience with the technique. The many advantages of biaxial micro incision phaco are easily accessible to the skilled cataract surgeon.

Management of small pupil may be successfully accomplished by means of any one or a combination of the following techniques: Pharmacologic mydriasis Viscomydriasis Pupillary stretching techniques Pupil ring expanders Iris surgery Preoperative preparation accomplishes multiple goals, including infection prophylaxis. Preventing infection is a multi-factorial process involving positioning, prepping, and draping of the patient, and the use of antibiotics as well as surgical technique.

Current limitations in the available IOL technology have impeded full utilization of a biaxial microincisional approach to cataract surgery by many surgeons. There are numerous IOLs available internationally that can be injected through 1.5– 2.2 mm incisions. IOLs that are multifocal and toric are being manufactured and implanted through sub-2.0 mm incisions. Injectable polymer lenses hold the promise of making full utilization of a biaxial microincisional technique without the need for incision enlargement, although further research and development needs to transpire.

Each step in cataract surgery builds on the preceding step. The clear corneal incision should be sized correctly for instrumentation. The capsulorhexis should be centered, round and slightly smaller than the optic of the intraocular lens to be implanted. Endo lenticular nucleofractis techniques protect both the capsule and the cornea. Separation of infusion and aspiration facilitates the removal of the lens material and has advantages in difficult and complicated cases.