Contact versus noncontact diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in cadaver eyes.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The optimal placement and laser energy levels of a new contact probe with a variable focus used for transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation were compared with the diode laser noncontact technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fresh cadaver eyes were evaluated by a modified posterior Miyake view using videotape, light microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy.

RESULTS

The noncontact diode technique at maximum energy (1.2 J) and contact diode applications at similar energy levels failed to produce obvious gross tissue ciliary body change and mild alterations by histology. Consistent gross, histologic, and scanning electron microscopic damage was noted at 3.0 J or more with the contact probe placed at the surgical limbus and defocused 0.5 to 1.5 mm posteriorly.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that the Multilase contact diode laser causes transscleral ciliary body destruction in a cadaver eye model and may have potential clinical usefulness.