Simulation of fluid dynamics and turbulence during phacoemulsification using the new propeller turbo tip

PURPOSE: To investigate the fluid dynamics and turbulence in the anterior chamber during phacoemulsification with a new propeller turbo tip using computational fluid dynamics methods. METHODS: A theoretical study, three-dimensional model with the corresponding mathematical equations for the propeller turbo phaco tip, anterior chamber and lens capsular bag was developed. A simulation was performed for the new propeller turbo tip with various parameter settings (vacuum, irrigation bottle height and phaco power). Fluid dynamics and turbulence in the anterior chamber, lens capsular bag and phaco tip were evaluated. The linear relationship between the different setting parameters and a stable anterior chamber pressure was assessed. RESULTS: The fluid dynamic turbulence was mainly symmetrically distributed in the anterior chamber. Propeller turbo phaco tip vibration caused increased fluid velocity and asymmetrical fluid turbulence in the metal lumen but had little influence on dynamic intraocular pressure. Reasonable phaco machine parameter settings can maintain a stable intraocular pressure during phacoemulsification. CONCLUSIONS: Evaluation of phacoemulsification fluid dynamics using computational simulation methods could provide detailed information about the influence of the propeller on dynamic intraocular pressure during phacoemulsification, which is useful for a better understanding of this procedure.