Intraoperative phacoemulsification tip fracture

Abstract

Introduction: Intraoperative instrument fractures pose a serious risk during cataract surgery through the retention of metallic foreign bodies and subsequent injury to intraocular structures. Patient and Clinical Findings: An 83-year-old woman underwent phacoemulsification and insertion of an intraocular lens, during which an intraoperative phacoemulsification tip fracture was encountered during quadrant removal. Diagnosis, Intervention, and Outcome: A thorough examination of the operative field revealed the broken tip fragment in the drape bag, with no intraocular fragments. The surgery was completed with a replacement phacoemulsification probe without issues, and the patient made an uneventful recovery. Conclusions: Early diagnosis and management after instrument breakage are necessary to prevent the retention of metallic foreign bodies.