The Effect of Laser Radiation on the Retinal Vasculature

Abstract

The introduction of laser photocoagulation to ophthalmology has stimulated interest in the utilization of this technique in the treatment of retinal vascular lesions.^1-4This report explores the general effects of laser radiation upon the various component parts of the retinal vascular system. The histologic response of the vascular and perivascular tissues will be discussed with regard to the absorption, transmission, and scattering potential of these substances. The effect of the laser beam on retinal microaneurysms, neovascularization, and angiomata has been investigated and will be interpreted from the information gathered from the animal and laboratory studies. Method Animal Studies. —Twenty rabbit eyes and six monkey eyes were used to investigate the histologic effects of laser radiation upon the retinal vasculature. Gray chinchilla rabbits, weighing between 3 and 5 kg, and Indian monkeys, weighing between 6 and 8 kg, were used. The pupils were dilated maximally with phenylephrine hydrochloride 10% (Neo-Synephrine)