According to Biophotonics Discovery, a University of South Florida research team has introduced a new strategy for cataract removal employing an economical, millisecond-pulsed laser system made from commercially available diode lasers.
Laser phacoemulsification of cataracts uses a custom diode laser system to deliver the laser light directly to the target. Image Credit: Mitchell Harrah
Cataracts continue to be one of the principal causes of blindness worldwide, particularly in countries with limited access to cutting-edge medical technology. As part of standard treatment, the cloudy lens in the eye is broken up and removed using a process known as phacoemulsification, which uses laser or ultrasound.
Modern laser-based versions of this surgery can improve healing and accuracy, but they require expensive equipment that many low- and middle-income countries cannot afford. Patients in these places have few options, leading to longer recovery times and lower outcomes.
This novel strategy could help close this gap in worldwide eye care.
This device is more affordable and compact than the high-powered femtosecond lasers commonly employed in more expensive healthcare systems.
The researchers demonstrated that their laser approach could successfully liquefy cataract-like material without damaging surrounding tissue using computer models and hands-on tests with tissue-mimicking materials. There is less chance of unintentional injury because the laser’s heating action is strictly regulated and restricted to the contact site.
According to the study’s lead author, PhD candidate Mitchell Harrah, the technology uses near-infrared light pulses supplied through a specially designed surgical probe. Their experiments suggest that in situations when sophisticated equipment is unavailable, this design might be a workable substitute for conventional laser phacoemulsification.
This method has the potential to significantly decrease the cost and complexity of cataract surgery if it is further proven in clinical settings. Millions of individuals who do not now have access to sight-saving treatment might benefit from it, particularly in low-income countries or rural areas where the prevalence of cataracts is rising quickly due to aging populations.
The team believes that this proof-of-concept study will pave the way for clinical tests and widespread adoption of the approach in the future.
Journal Reference:
Harrah, M. et al. (2025) Low-cost optical system for laser phacoemulsification of cataracts. Biophotonics Discovery. doi.org/10.1117/1.BIOS.2.2.022304