Pars plana transvitreal carbon dioxide laser photocautery: a new surgical technique.

Intraocular carbon dioxide laser photocautery has been used experimentally as well as clinically to surround and seal retinal tears and to treat fibrovascular fronds and blood vessels at the time of vitrectomy. All biologic tissue will absorb the 10.6-microm infrared wavelength; thus the tissue does not have to be pigmented in order to absorb infrared energy. This technique involves no electrical hazard to the patient or surgeon. We have followed patients treated with the carbon dioxide laser, and they have retained improved vision for over 18 months. Intraocular carbon dioxide laser photocautery appears to be a safe, reliable, and effective means of performing intraocular photocautery at the time of vitrectomy.