Diode Laser Ab Externo Sclerostomy in Rabbits

ABSTRACT

Sclerostomy is preferable full-thickness filtration surgery, if very low pressure are desired or if guard filtration surgery had failed. Laser sclerostomy can be performed in a less invasive manner than standard procedure, so it reduces scar formation and minimizes postoperative complications. The objective of this investigation was to determine the feasibility and parameters of laser sclerostomy using a diode laser. The diode laser with a fiberoptic delivery system is lightweight, portable and utilizes a 100 Volt outlet. Eighteen eyes of pigmented rabbits underwent a diode laser ab externo sclerostomy with energy 2 W, duration 1-2 seconds by applying endolaser probe, 0.5 mm from the limbus. Gross and histopathologic examination were done at 1 hour and 7 days after treatment. A patent fistula with formation of filtering bleb was achieved in all cases. There was a flattening of the filtration bleb at 3.3 postoperative days.