Simplified anesthesia technique for scleral tunnel phacoemulsification

Abstract

A simplified anesthesia technique for sutureless scleral tunnel, small incision, one-port phacoemulsification is described. Step 1: Mild intravenous sedation is achieved with 1 mg of midazolam and 10 mg of propofol. Step 2: A tetracaine- or preservative-free-lidocaine-soaked Weck cell sponge is applied to the superior bulbar conjunctiva and the superior episcleral tissue for localized anesthesia. Step 3: Preservative-free lidocaine 1%, 0.75 cc, is injected into the anterior chamber for intraocular anesthesia. This technique can be used in the presence of all types of cataracts, requires about 10 seconds to complete, and can be used with all phacoemulsification techniques. Results of the technique in a study population are reported.