[Accidental laser coagulation of the macula (author's transl)].

During experimental studies with Q-switched laser radiation a laser beam with an impulse energy of 100 mJ reached the left eye of a patient. Dense vitreal hemorrhage developed; later fundus evaluation revealed coagulation of the macula with circular subretinal bleeding. Six month later a scar with retinal folds was observed at the posterior pole; the visual acuity was 0.1. The accident is compared with previously reported cases.