instrument insider
ClearCut HP Knives (Alcon)
Reviewed by Johnny L. Gayton, M.D.

		The ClearCut HP blade is designed to provide exceptional sharpness and performance, with all of the advantages of a disposable metal blade.

When Alcon first approached me about trying the ClearCut HP, I was dubious to say the least. My experience with other metal blades had been less than inspiring. The blades were often dull right out of the pack, causing the patient extra discomfort and increasing the likelihood of Descemet's membrane detachments, wound leaks, irregular wound appearance and capsular tears. In fact, I'd been a thorn in the side of metal blade manufacturers for many years -- so much so that they nicknamed me the "Mikey" of metal blades. (Remember the famous cereal commercial with the kid who never liked anything?)

My experience with the Alcon ClearCut HP has changed all that. The Alcon ClearCut HP series is a quantum leap in blade technology. Anterior chamber entry is controlled and smooth -- smoother than the entry with my diamond blades -- resulting in a thin, straight line in Descemet's. I don't have to force it. The incisions look beautiful both intraoperatively and post-op.

Although the ClearCut HP blade is labeled for single use, I've been able to use one blade several times. (In that situation, we care for the blade just as we'd care for a diamond blade.)

The bottom line? The ClearCut HP makes it possible for a surgeon to create a diamond-type incision with a less expensive metal blade. This should be especially helpful for hospital-based surgeons and doctors working in places where diamond blades are not handled with the utmost care. In fact, surgeons who use diamonds should keep this blade available as a backup, and should consider switching to this technology when their diamond blades need to be replaced.

Dr. Gayton is in private group practice at Eyesight Associates in Warner Robins, Ga.