Pure phaco: phacoemulsification without ophthalmic viscosurgical devices

The ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) is an essential part of modern phacoemulsification surgery. Many times, OVDs are blamed for intraocular pressure spikes, toxic anterior segment syndrome, and capsular bag distension syndrome. To avoid these complications, we developed a technique in which phacoemulsification can be done without using OVDs. The irrigating cannula, on a continuous irrigation mode, was introduced through a side port, and capsulorhexis and incision construction were performed under an irrigating balanced salt solution. No hydroprocedure was performed. Phacoemulsification was done by chopping technique. At the end of the procedure, the intraocular lens was implanted by wound assistance technique under a continuous irrigation mode.