Venturi vacuum better than peristaltic during phaco

When performing phacoemulsification, using a venturi-based vacuum may result in reduced clearance time of lens material compared to a peristaltic-based vacuum, according to researchers at the John A. Moran Eye Center Laboratories, University of Utah, USA. In addition, the venturi-based vacuum may better mitigate fragment bounces off the tip, or ‘chatter’.

In a study published in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, the researchers conducted an experimental study to evaluate the efficiency of peristaltic-based and venturi-based vacuums during phaco.

Using porcine lenses hardened with formalin and cut into 2.0 mm cubes, the researchers used a phacoemulsification machine (WHITESTAR Signature Phacoemulsification System, Abbott Medical Optics) that could switch between peristaltic and venturi-based vacuums to measure time to fragment removal and chatter. They tested both transversal ultrasound and micropulse longitudinal motions, and found the venturi-based vacuum yielded better efficiency and less chatter than the peristaltic-based vacuum, at lower vacuum levels.

To read the abstract of the study, click here.