Ultrasound phacoemulsification: Physical mechanisms, cavitation, and thermal effects

The authors aimed to analyze the physical mechanisms and potential risks associated with ultrasound-induced effects during phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Through computational modeling and experimental validation, they found that the mechanical and thermal risks to ocular tissues are negligible, with lens fragmentation primarily driven by the oscillating tip rather than cavitation. Their results support the safety and efficacy of ultrasound-based phacoemulsification techniques.