AquaLase: a new technology for cataract extraction.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review describes a completely new technology for removal of the crystalline lens and compares it to currently available instruments. The AquaLase option on the Infiniti Vision System (Alcon Laboratories, Fort Worth, Texas) delivers unique advantages over conventional ultrasound phacoemulsification.

RECENT FINDINGS

Incremental improvements have made ultrasonic phacoemulsification safer to the posterior capsule and less likely to create wound burn. AquaLase uses a fundamentally different technology that eliminates the risk of incision burn, is probably less likely to cause posterior capsule rupture than ultrasonic phacoemulsification needles, and is more efficient than laser-based lens removal instruments.

SUMMARY

AquaLase is a new technology that offers significant advantages and is likely to find wider application as clinical experience accumulates.