Cataract surgery: capsulorhexis: practice question

A Ophthalmology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Ophthalmology · Cataract surgery: capsulorhexis

Sample item

What is the purpose of a continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis during phacoemulsification?

ATo create a strong round opening in the anterior capsule that resists tearsBTo remove the posterior capsuleCTo dilate the pupilDTo cut the zonules

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

A. To create a strong round opening in the anterior capsule that resists tears

A continuous round tear of the anterior capsule gives a stable capsular bag for in-the-bag IOL placement. It also gives a firm rim for nucleus rotation.

Option by option

A. To create a strong round opening in the anterior capsule that resists tears (correct)
Correct. A continuous round opening is strong and centred.
B. To remove the posterior capsule
The posterior capsule is intentionally preserved.
C. To dilate the pupil
Pupil dilation is done with mydriatics.
D. To cut the zonules
Zonules support the bag and are not cut.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

Questions about this Ophthalmology question

What is the answer to this Ophthalmology question?

The best answer is A, To create a strong round opening in the anterior capsule that resists tears. A continuous round tear of the anterior capsule gives a stable capsular bag for in-the-bag IOL placement.

Why is "To remove the posterior capsule" not the answer?

The posterior capsule is intentionally preserved.

Why is "To dilate the pupil" not the answer?

Pupil dilation is done with mydriatics.

Why is "To cut the zonules" not the answer?

Zonules support the bag and are not cut.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Cataract surgery: capsulorhexis in Ophthalmology. It also gives a firm rim for nucleus rotation.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Cataract surgery: capsulorhexis?

Group the red eye by what to examine and what the pupil does. Then use the flashcards and the other Ophthalmology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.