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Aim

A clean open self-sealing incision.

The SoftFit makes superb wounds which are usually easy to open, especially if the PI was well docked.

Principles

Stabilize the eye with a Thornton ring or similar.

You can often identify the main incision site by looking for a line of gas bubbles in the stroma. Insert the Slade spatula or the capsulorhexis forceps just distal to this line into the opening of the main incision.

Push gently forward and downwards and the incision opens. If there has been a tilted dock, the incision may not be completely patent. If so, you can sweep the wound and the incision will open. I always sweep backwards in a circular motion to avoid causing any damage to Descement’s membrane.

Tip

Regard the laser incision as a perforate potential space rather than a distinct opening in patients with severe arcus as the laser does not cut well through opaque cornea.