[Erbium:YAG laser phacoemulsification. Comparison of 2 different application systems].
BACKGROUND
The erbium:YAG laser a suitable energy source for photoablation of several tissues with only minimal thermal side effects. The application system is an important factor in increasing its efficiency.


METHODS
We used an Er:YAG laser designed for clinical application. The energy was guided via a special coated zirconium fluoride fiber to handpieces of various designs. Twenty lenses of patient eyes were treated using two application systems with 0 degree and 30 degrees tips.


RESULTS
Despite similar cataract density an average laser phacoemulsification took significantly less energy and less time using the 0 degree tip.


CONCLUSIONS
Use of the Er:YAG laser is superior to ultrasound phacoemulsification in minimizing thermal energy required for lens removal. Certain parameters of the application system construction, in this case the 0 degree tip, can provide additional efficiency. Further developments should pay attention to these findings.
Wetzel
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D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D018918:Phacoemulsification / Q000295:instrumentation*