What type of incisions are used in "sutureless" cataract surgeries?

In "sutureless" cataract surgeries, clear corneal incisions are utilized. These incisions are made in the cornea and are designed to be self-sealing due to their location and the natural curvature of the eye. The technique allows for a minimal entry point that provides adequate access for the surgeon to remove the cataract and implant the intraocular lens without the need for sutures. This is advantageous as it promotes quicker healing and reduces the risk of complications associated with sutures, such as infection or inflammation.

Clear corneal incisions are typically small, around 2.2 to 3 mm, which contributes to the surgery's minimally invasive nature. This approach is particularly effective in modern cataract surgery, where advancements in technology, such as phacoemulsification, enable precise and efficient removal of the lens.

The other choices represent different types of incisions that are not typically associated with sutureless techniques. Radial incisions and scleral incisions involve larger openings that may require suturing, while corneal relaxing incisions are used to correct astigmatism rather than for cataract extraction.