Double Chop: Questions and Answers

This material shows us double Chop fractures the lens in 2 hemipieces without the use of ultrasound or vacuum.
Those unfamilar with the technique are concerned about zonular stress because people think the operator is pushing down on the lens. The chopper is supporting the lens from below and as he stabs the lens with the phaco tip and bring the chopper upward. Both instruments meet in the middle and fracture the lens. To illustrate this point, he first place the chopper out to the equator, supinate his hand, and then tilt the handle vertically. You can visualize the chopper tip is actually more sideways which helps to support the lens from below. This puts to rest the concern about zonular stress. This maneuver does not push down on the lens.

Video by D. Brian Kim, MD