Comparison of a torsional and a standard tip with a monitored forced infusion phacoemulsification system.

PURPOSE

To compare the relative efficiency and chatter of the 30-degree 0.9 mm Kelman tip (standard tip) and Ozil Intrepid Balanced tip (torsional tip) with identical optimum settings.

SETTING

John A. Moran Eye Center Laboratories, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.

DESIGN

Experimental study.

METHODS

Porcine nuclei were fixed in formalin and cut into 2.0 mm cubes. Lens cubes were phacoemulsified with standard and torsional tips at 60% and 100% torsional amplitude with 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% longitudinal power with monitored forced infusion. Experiments were performed at a constant vacuum, aspiration rate, and intraocular pressure.

RESULTS

Linear regression showed increased efficiency with up to 75% longitudinal power at 60% torsional amplitude for both tips (P = .046 standard; P = .0093 torsional). Longitudinal did not significantly increase efficiency at 100% torsional power for either tip. Torsional tips were on average 29% more efficient than standard tips throughout the range tested (P < .0001), and 100% torsional power was on average 45% more efficient than 60% torsional power (P = .0028). Chatter was minimal except at 100% longitudinal power, which was greater than at 75% longitudinal power (P < .0001). At 100% longitudinal power, torsional tips had more chatter than standard tips (at 60% torsional, P < .0001; at 100% torsional, P = .0022).

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing up to 75% longitudinal power increased the efficiency at 60% torsional for standard and torsional tips. Torsional tips were more efficient than standard tips. Chatter was generally minimal. Torsional tips showed more chatter than standard tips at 100% longitudinal power.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None of the authors has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.