Erste Erfahrungen in der Behandlung von Veränderungen des vorderen Augenabschnitts mit dem Neodymium :YAG-Laser

Abstract

The 1st results with the Meditec OPL-3 neodymium: YAG [yttrium-aluminum-garnet] laser (Munich) was studied. The YAG laser is a pulsed laser, the biological effects of which are based on the formation of plasma at its focal point. Plasma formation induces a rapid explosion-like expansion of the tissue. This effect can be used to sever opaque structures of the refractive media of the eye, such as secondary cataracts, membranes or strands. The results of the first 80 consecutive cases treated with the laser were summarized. The surgical procedure is described in detail. Visual acuity improved instantaneously in all cases in which no concomitant eye pathology (e.g., corneal or macular changes) existed. Complications consisted in the development of postoperative inflammatory reactions and increases in intraocular pressure, and responded well to corticosteroids and .beta.-blockers or Diamox. The development of the neodymium:YAG laser has considerably advanced therapeutic possibilities.