Application of iris hooks in phacoemulsification of eyes with small pupil

Objective To investigate the safety and efficacy of iris hook in the phacoemulsification on eyes with small pupil. Methods Thirty eyes of 30 patients with small pupil and cataract underwent phacoemulsification combined with foldable intraocular lens implantation were enrolled in this study. Iris hooks were applied to dilate the pupil in the operation. The patients were followed up for 1 to 6 months. Results During the postoperative follow-up examination, the visual acuities of 26 patients were improved compared with preoperative levels with normal intraocular pressure (IOP) and visual acuity of 4 patients remained unchanged because of fundus diseases. The surgical complications included corneal edema, anterior chamber fibrin exudation and posterior capsular rupture. Conclusion Application of iris hooks in the phacoemulsification operation of eyes with small pupil is safe and convenient. It can reduce the risk of surgery, improve the visual acuity and achieve better surgical effect. Key words: Hook, iris; Phacoemulsification; Cataract; pupil, small