What does cystorrhexis mean?

Cystorrhexis refers to the surgical rupture or tearing of the urinary bladder. It is commonly performed during cataract surgery to create an opening in the anterior capsule of the lens, allowing access to the inner contents of the lens and facilitating its removal. This technique is primarily used in extracapsular cataract extraction, where the surgeon manually extracts the lens nucleus and cortex while leaving the posterior capsule intact.

During cystorrhexis, the surgeon uses a specialized surgical instrument called a cystotome to create a small tear or opening in the anterior lens capsule. This tear is typically made in a circular or cruciate pattern, depending on the surgeon's preference and the specific surgical technique being employed.

The creation of the cystorrhexis is a crucial step in cataract surgery as it provides a clear pathway for the removal of the cataractous lens material and allows the intraocular lens (IOL) to be implanted into the capsular bag. This technique requires precision, skill, and careful handling of the delicate lens capsule to ensure a successful surgical outcome.