Automated lesion placement in the rabbit eye.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The objective of this research was to build a prototype feedback control system to precisely place argon laser lesions on the retina for treatment of retinal disorders. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS, AND METHODS: The prototype feedback control system was tested by placing lesions at specific locations on the retina of pigmented rabbits to simulate the treatment of diabetic retinopathy, retinal breaks or tears, and a pre-programmed, two-dimensional array of lesions was placed at a specific site.

RESULTS

Results of feedback-controlled lesion placement performed in vivo on pigmented rabbits are presented. The ability to place lesions with automated feedback control is demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

Automated feedback control placement of argon laser lesions is possible at a reasonable cost and has numerous therapeutic and safety benefits over current ballistic delivery.