ABSTRACT
Early postoperative intraocular pressure elevation (IOP) is less common after 180-degree than after 360-degree argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT). We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 38 patients treated with 360-degree ALT and perioperative 1% apraclonidine, and those of 39 patients treated with 180-degree ALT without apraclonidine, to determine whether apraclonidine offset the increased risk of transient pressure elevation following 360-degree treatment, as compared with that after 180-degree therapy. The average IOP change and the frequency of pressure elevations at 1 hour, 1 day, and 1 month postoperatively were similar in the two groups. With respect to early postoperative IOP elevation, 360-degree ALT with perioperative apraclonidine appears to be as safe as 180-degree ALT without apraclonidine.
Subject(s)
Adrenergic alpha-Agonists/therapeutic use , Clonidine/analogs & derivatives , Glaucoma/surgery , Intraocular Pressure/drug effects , Laser Therapy , Trabeculectomy , Aged , Clonidine/therapeutic use , Female , Glaucoma/drug therapy , Humans , Male , Postoperative Complications/drug therapy , Retrospective Studies , Treatment OutcomeABSTRACT
In vivo cannulation of retinal blood vessels has not been reported but would be useful in exploring local vascular parameters and new treatment modalities. We developed a microsurgical technique for cannulating rabbit and cat retinal vessels, using glass micropipettes with curved shanks made from standard capillary tubing. The micropipette was held by a micromanipulator, which was fitted with a fiberoptic sleeve for intraocular illumination and for micropipette tip protection during insertion through the sclera. Direct aspiration from and injection into retinal blood vessels were possible.
