Experimental observation of intraocular pressure changes during microkeratome suctioning in laser in situ keratomileusis

Abstract

To observe changes in intraocular pressure (IOP), the manner in which the eye is suctioned, and the effect of the number of suction ports. Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Dental College, Suidobashi Hospital, Tokyo, Japan. Suction rings with single or dual ports were made of transparent acrylic acid resin to facilitate observation with a digital video camera. The IOP and the duration of the IOP increase (time to reach 90% of the maximum IOP) were measured in 6 porcine eyes with an intra-vein pressure-sensor catheter in the vitreous cavity. The IOP changes were recorded using a personal computer. Suctioning with single- and dual-port suction rings was similar. The IOP increases with single- and dual-port suction rings were similar (99.1 mm Hg +/- 6.1 [SD] and 99.0 +/- 6.5 mm Hg, respectively) (P=.987). The duration of the IOP increase was also similar (4.21 +/- 0.24 seconds and 4.12 +/- 0.33 seconds, respectively) (P=.190). The number of ports did not affect suctioning and changes in IOP. This technique is useful in developing the ideal shape and setting of the suction ring.