Efects of Diathermy and Cryoapplication on the Seleral Shrinkage in Rabbits

ABSTRACT

In order to investigate the effects of diathermy and cryosurgery on the scleral shrinkage, nonperforating surface diathermy and cryocautery were applied in rabbits eyes. The premarked scleral segments were measured by corneal microscope with micrometer, and the resultant elevation of the intraocular pressures was pressures was measured by Schiotz tonometer. In the eyes treated by 10 diathermy in 5 X 3mm area, average 20.1% of scleral shrinkage was observed. There was no significant difference between shrinkages in the meridional and latitudinal directions. In the eyes treated by cryopencil no significant changes were found. Diathermy applications in 3 X 10mm area in the sclera induced 36.9% increase in the intraocular pressure which lasted about 9 minutes. On the other hand, cryoapplication did not produce such an elevation in ocular tension.