Trans-scleral and intravitreal contact ND: YAG laser application: an experimental study

ABSTRACT

A contact Nd YAG laser with a sapphire tip [convex surface 2 mm in diameter] was used to coagulate the retina and ciliary body through the sclera. The laser energy was successfully transmitted through the sclera producing retinal coagulation and destruction of the ciliary body. A 0.2 mm in diameter sapphire tip and Nd YAG laser was used to perform transvitreal retinal coagulation, retinotomy and retinochoriodal incision. Minimal hemorrhage occurred when retinochoroidotomy was done. Probe-tissue adhesion occurred but could easily be separated. Contact application of laser energy is a modern developed technology used primarily with a sapphire tip for cutting tissue [Daikuzono et at, 1985]. Because laser incisions are commonly accompanied by coagulation, bleeding from the tissue is reduced to a minimum with this technique. The initial successful application of contact laser delivery have been reported independently by us [Peyman et al., 1987] and Ando and associates 1986. To our knowledge, no long term results of contact Nd YAG laser on ocular tissues has been reported thus far