Temperature in the anterior chamber during phacoemulsification

PURPOSE: To evaluate changes in the aqueous humor temperature using 2 phacoemulsification units (Stellaris 28.5 kHz device and Whitestar Signature 40 kHz device). SETTING: Nippon Medical School, Musashikosugi Hospital, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa, Japan. DESIGN: Experimental study. METHODS: Aqueous humor temperatures were measured with a temperature probe set in the anterior chamber during ultrasound (US) oscillation in porcine eyes under 5 conditions. RESULTS: Continuous longitudinal oscillation caused a rapid rise in aqueous humor temperature, while the pulse and elliptical modes suppressed temperature elevation. Reducing the number of US tip vibrations did not reduce the temperature in the anterior chamber. However, raising the vacuum setting allowed the aspirations to rise to the set value, thereby lowering the temperature in the anterior chamber. CONCLUSION: Because differences in the phacoemulsification settings can lead to temperature elevations in the anterior chamber, surgeons must carefully monitor these settings to prevent corneal tissue damage. (C) 2014 ASCRS AND ESCRS.