ESCRS - PP13.16 - The Environmental Impact Of Phacoemulsification In A Private Tertiary Hospital In Metro Manila, Philippines

The Environmental Impact Of Phacoemulsification In A Private Tertiary Hospital In Metro Manila, Philippines

Published 2026 - 44th Congress of the ESCRS

Reference: PP13.16 | Type: Free paper | DOI: 10.82333/mreh-g132

Authors: Dr Isabella Villarama Bondoc* 1 , Dr Victor Jose Caparas 1

1Eye and Vision Institute,The Medical City ,Pasig City,Philippines

Purpose

Phacoemulsification is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures worldwide, yet little is known about its environmental impact in developing nations. This study quantified the carbon footprint of phacoemulsification in a Philippine private tertiary hospital to identify opportunities for improving efficiency and sustainability.

Setting

The Medical City Eye and Vision Surgery Suite, A Philippine Private Tertiary Hospital

Methods

All phacoemulsification cases performed over 1 month were included. Data collected included (1)  operating room energy-use, (2) phacoemulsification and fluid management system energy use, (3) waste generated from single-use disposable waste, (4) waste generated from pharmaceutical waste and (5) procedure duration and device operating time. The life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology was used to estimate greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂ equivalents, CO₂e) per case.

Results

A total of 150 cases were recorded with a mean surgical time of 26.11 minutes. Waste and consumables converted to CO₂e were:

  1. Operating room energy-use: 82 kW per case or 33.6 kg CO₂e per case 
  2. Phaco machine Fluid Management System energy use: 0.75 kWh or 0.3075 kg CO₂e per case
  3. Waste generated from single-use disposables: 1.29 kg CO₂e per case 
  4. Waste generated from pharmaceutical waste: 0.31 kg CO₂e per case 

 

The average carbon footprint per surgery was ~35.3 kg CO₂e  which is equivalent to burning 3–4 liters of fuel. This is lower compared to the global average and well within the recommended carbon footprint levels.

 

Conclusions

Given the global volume of cataract surgery, improving the environmental efficiency of phacoemulsification is imperative. This study provides valuable baseline data for operational and financial planning and supports efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of cataract surgery in the local setting. On a broader scale, benchmarking against international best practices can guide strategies to lower costs and minimize emissions in ophthalmic care.