Ciliary body destruction and retinopexy using diode laser

ABSTRACT

Semiconductor lasers are recently finding increased application for the treatment of ophthalmic disorders. We used a diode laser with an output power 1 W through a fiberoptic light pipe [200 [micro]m diameter] to deliver laser energy through the scalera of pigmented rabbits. Ciliary body destruction occurred with energy levels of 300-400 mW and exposure time of 0.5 sec. Retinal photocoagulation was achieved with energy levels of 200-500 mW in 0.5 sec. Histologic examination of acute lesions demonstrated thermal destruction of ciliary body processes and retina. Chorioretinal scar formation was observed clinically and histologically within 2-3 weeks. Our data indicate that the transscleral diode laser may be used for destruction of the ciliary body processes or peripheral retinal coagulation in pigmented eyes