title: Contact diode laser cyclo-photocoagulation for refractory glaucoma. A pilot study.
abstract: Initial experience with non-contact diode cyclo-photocoagulation for refractory glaucoma has shown positive results. Diode laser irradiation applied via a contact probe results in greater transmission through the sclera and delivery of more energy to the ciliary body. A trial was performed to evaluate the effects of contact diode cyclo-photocoagulation. A total of 12 patients with glaucoma due to conditions such as central retinal vein occlusion were treated. A mean of 22 pulses (810 nm) with powers of up to 2 W and of 2 s duration were applied via a fibre-optic delivery system and a contact probe. The mean intra-ocular pressure dropped from 42.3 to 13.6 mmHg over 3 months. Four patients required retreatment. Three patients had side effects that included hyphaema, anterior fibrinous uveitis and pupil block. In conclusion, contact diode cyclo-photocoagulation had a significant ocular hypotensive action in the treatment of refractory glaucoma. As compared with non-contact diode cyclo-photocoagulation, the contact modality produced more marked non-therapeutic side effects.
authors: Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK.
authors: M W
authors: MW
authors: Ulbig
authors: D
authors: D
authors: McHugh
authors: A
authors: A
authors: McNaught
authors: P
authors: P
authors: Hamilton
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002924:Ciliary Body / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005901:Glaucoma / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007429:Intraocular Pressure; D017075:Laser Coagulation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015814:Ocular Hypotension / Q000209:etiology; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012086:Reoperation