NanoLaser Cataract Surgery with the A.R.C. CETUS

What the CETUS NanoLaser is

The CETUS NanoLaser is a compact 1064 nm nanosecond laser that adds laser photofragmentation of the lens to an existing phaco machine, without ultrasound. According to A.R.C. Laser, the lens is fragmented with minimal energy input and no thermal gradient in the anterior chamber.

The pulse energy range is 3 to 10 mJ, the pulse length is 5 ns and the repetition rate is up to 10 Hz. A 7-inch touchscreen controls the unit, which measures 135 × 478 × 421 mm and weighs 12 kg.

• Wavelength 1064 nm, pulse energy 3 to 10 mJ.
• Pulse length 5 ns, repetition up to 10 Hz.
• Dimensions 135 × 478 × 421 mm, weight 12 kg.
• 7-inch touchscreen.

Laser photofragmentation in cataract surgery: how it fits the workflow

The unit is compact enough to sit beside or under the phaco machine and connects to common systems through the pneumatic vitrectomy port. This is what makes it an upgrade rather than a replacement: the surgeon keeps the familiar phaco platform and adds laser fragmentation.

It works with single-use laser handpieces, so no cleaning, sterilisation or tuning of a phaco handpiece is needed for the laser step. Check compatibility with your specific phaco model in writing before purchase.

Plan the physical set-up as well: where the unit sits relative to the surgeon's foot controls, how the cable runs to the handpiece, and who connects and tests the system before the first case of the day.

Laser vs non laser cataract surgery: neutral criteria

People ask whether laser or non-laser cataract surgery is better, and there is no universal answer. Technique choice is the surgeon's, and patient suitability is a clinical matter. For equipment evaluation, compare workflow impact, training requirement, consumable costs, space, service obligations and your centre's case mix.

The term laser eye surgery is also used loosely by patients for refractive procedures, which differ from cataract surgery; patient information should be explained carefully. Our notes on types of ophthalmic lasers and the ophthalmic laser buying guide help with orientation.

Maintenance, safety and consumables

A.R.C. Laser states that the CETUS is maintenance-free, requires no service contract and is Laser Class 1, so no laser safety goggles are required. The manufacturer reports 50,000 NanoLaser cataract operations worldwide. These are manufacturer statements, so ask for the documentation and for how the supplier supports the device locally.

Even for a Class 1 system, your safety officer should confirm the classification applies to the configuration in use, and the single-use handpieces must be stocked reliably. See the medical laser safety guide for the general framework.

Factor in the consumable stream: single-use handpieces must be ordered, stored and tracked per case, so agree a stocking arrangement with the supplier before go-live.

Questions to ask and next steps

Ask which phaco machines have been connected, what training the surgeons and nurses receive, how handpieces are supplied and stored, and what the warranty covers. Request a demonstration in your theatre with your phaco system.

Beckfinity can arrange a CETUS NanoLaser presentation and help your team compare it with other options from the A.R.C. Laser range. Contact our specialists for a quote, and confirm device registration requirements with the relevant UAE authorities.