Evaluation of the Active Sentry System During Cataract Surgery With the Centurion Phacoemulsifier

Each new generation of phacoemulsification system has aimed to optimize the control of fluidics and the delivery of energy during phacoemulsification. Nicoli CM et al., (J Cataract Refract Surg 2016;42:157-162) suggested a better anterior chamber stability when using an active fluidics system. Malik PK et al., (Eye and Vision 2017;4:22) showed that using an IOP based phacoemulsification system in association with the use of an Intrepid balanced tip provides a reduction in CDE (Cumulated Dissipated Energy and EFU (Estimated Fluid Usage). It has also been shown that a lower CDE provides obvious benefits: less endothelium cells damages and lower complication rates (Mady MA et al., Clin.Ophthalmol. 2012; 6:503-10).

The latest technologies, i.e. the Active Sentry Handpiece and Hybrid tips, have been introduced to further improve the safety of phacoemulsification. The Active Sentry system has moved pressure sensors closer to the operated eye, hence further reducing the risk of surge during procedures. (Thorne A et al. Phacoemulsifier occlusion break surge volume reduction, J Cataract Refract Surg. 2018;44:1491-1496). The Hybrid tips have been designed to prevent posterior capsule rupture in the event of contact with the capsule.

This new technology allows phacoemulsification procedures under reduced infusion pressures and a "high-vacuum - low energy" strategy which may lead to a safer procedure.

Data from this study will try to demonstrate that cataract surgeries with Active Sentry will need less CDE and therefore may be safer, due to the surge effects decrease. This CDE parameter will be analysed according to differents subgroups: Presence of hybrid tip or balanced tip, cataract score based on the WHO nuclear grading recommendation (Thylefors B et al., (2002) The WHO Cataract Grading Group, Ophthalmic Epidemiology, 9:2, 83-95) The recent experiences conducted in real world condition in different sites have suggested that Centurion with AS was able to improved settings: maximum vacuum and UltraSound (US) time reduction and as a consequence a 20 to 30% CDE reduction.