Description
The IOL Cutter & Forceps is a specialist ophthalmic instrument system designed to assist surgeons with the controlled division and removal of foldable intraocular lenses during IOL explantation procedures.
The cutter tip attaches to a compatible phacoemulsification system and uses ultrasonic energy to divide the IOL into smaller sections. The manufacturer describes this as a slicing action through the IOL material. The accompanying forceps hold the IOL securely and provide the counter-pressure required during cutting.
By dividing the IOL into smaller sections or slivers, the system is designed to facilitate removal through the existing surgical incision without extending the wound.
The cutter tip is manufactured from titanium, while the dedicated forceps are made from hardened steel to provide the strength required during the cutting process. The system is suitable for cutting both softer hydrophilic and harder hydrophobic foldable IOLs.
During use, the cutter is advanced from the periphery of the IOL towards its centre while the forceps stabilise the lens and provide counter-pressure. The coordinated movement of the two instruments maintains tension within the IOL and feeds the lens material into the open cutting tip, allowing it to be divided in a controlled manner.
Key features
- Designed to assist with foldable IOL explantation
- Titanium ultrasonic cutter tip
- Dedicated hardened-steel forceps
- Forceps hold the IOL and provide counter-pressure during cutting
- Produces a controlled slicing action through the IOL material
- Suitable for hydrophilic and hydrophobic foldable IOLs
- Connects to a compatible phacoemulsification system
- Divides the IOL into smaller sections to facilitate removal
- Designed to support removal through the existing surgical incision
- Patented cutter-tip and forceps design, as stated by the manufacturer
Important use information
The manufacturer states that the instrument must be sterilised before use and attached carefully to the phacoemulsification system. Users are also advised to perform an in-vitro practice procedure with a foldable IOL before clinical use to become familiar with the instrument and cutting technique.
The system must only be used by appropriately trained ophthalmic professionals. Users must review and follow the manufacturer’s current Instructions for Use, sterilisation instructions, compatibility information and operating guidance before use.
The manufacturer’s guidance recommends linear continuous phaco power rather than pulse or torsional operation, using the lowest effective power setting. It also provides specific instructions concerning irrigation, aspiration, vacuum, sleeve positioning, instrument movement and endothelial protection. These instructions should be followed in conjunction with the manufacturer’s formal Instructions for Use, the applicable phaco-system instructions and the surgeon’s professional judgement.