To compare the impact of two phacoemulsification techniques (subluxation versus divide-and-conquer) on postoperative corneal edema at postoperative hour 1 and day 4.

Phacoemulsification is the procedure of choice for most surgeons performing cataract surgery. Alternative techniques have been in development over the last twenty years, with the hope of optimizing operating times, total ultrasound energy used, patient safety, patient satisfaction and visual recovery associated with cataract surgery.

Divide-and conquer is the parent nucleofracture technique.The subluxation technique is a newer technique that is less frequently used because of an increased risk of corneal endothelium damage.

The aim of this comparative study was to evaluate corneal edema immediately after surgery performed with the subluxation technique versus divide-and-conquer. Corneal edema was determined by measuring central corneal thickness (CCT).

Inclusion Criteria:

• The presence of a senile cataract with equivalent grades and history of visual acuity regression
• Informed written consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with total white cataract
• With history of ocular surgery and other eye diseases (corneal pathology, uveitis, glaucoma)
• With systemic diseases with the potential to affect vision

Patients underwent phacoemulsification cataract surgery over a 6-month period.