Cataract in enucleated goat eyes: Training model for phacoemulsification

Abstract

We developed an inexpensive, reproducible technique of inducing cataract in enucleated animal eyes for phacoemulsification training. Injection of 0.3 to 0.5 mL of formalin 20% in the central and paracentral portion of the crystalline lens in a goat's eye induced cataract in about 5 to 10 minutes. Varying the interval would enable novice surgeons to practice different techniques of phacoemulsification based on cataract hardness.