Petalloid phacoemulsification

Hard grade IV nuclei are difficult to emulsify without causing additional s tress on the zonular apparatus. We herein, describe a method to accomplish successful phacoemulsification in hard cataracts. This technique of "petall oid phacoemulsification" consists of partial central debulking, followed by sequential chopping to create petal-shaped nuclear fragments emanating fro m the partially debulked center. The rim of the petals are emulsified follo wed by the emulsification of the central disc and the base of the petal. Tw enty eyes with grade IV nuclei underwent uncomplicated petalloid phacoemuls ification. The mean phaco time was 1.02 +/- 0.06 minutes and mean percentag e endothelial loss was 4.2 +/- 0.8%. Petalloid phacoemulsification is a saf e and useful technique in cases of hard cataracts.