Automated phakotomy and aspiration of soft congenital and traumatic cataracts.

The design and operation of an automated instrument for removal of a soft cataract through a small corneal incision has been described in a small series of young patients. The distinct advantages of the instrument and technique are the small single-entry corneal incision, the minimal manipulation on the part of the surgeon, the relative constancy of both the anatomical shape of the globe and of a predetermined intraocular pressure during the procedure, a decreased inflammatory response, and a rapid wound healing.