Developing laser-induced glaucoma in rabbits.
OBJECTIVE
An animal mode of glaucoma is necessary for the study of its pathogenesis and treatment. The purpose of this study was to create open-angle glaucoma using a laser in rabbits.


METHODS
The trabecular meshwork of anaesthetized, adult, pigmented and albino rabbits was ablated internally using a diode laser via a gonioscopy lens, or externally through the limbus. In albino rabbits we used Chinese ink to pigment the angle and methylcellulose to open the iridocorneal angle. The eyes were examined weekly and histological assessment was performed.


RESULTS
The success rate of intra-ocular hypertension was low (15%) and a result of synechial angle closure. A narrow angle prevented access of the laser beam to the trabecular meshwork and promoted damage to the ciliary processes located on the posterior iris.


CONCLUSIONS
Due to the unique anatomy of the rabbit eye, laser-induced glaucoma is difficult to achieve. To create a successful model it is necessary to widen the iridocorneal angle, selectively damage the trabecular meshwork and reduce inflammation.
Johnson
B
B
Physiology and Pharmacology Centre, Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
House
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P
Morgan
W
W
Sun
X
X
Yu
D Y
DY
D000818:Animals; D002244:Carbon; D004396:Coloring Agents; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D005123:Eye / Q000473:pathology / Q000528:radiation effects; D005901:Glaucoma / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D007429:Intraocular Pressure / Q000528:radiation effects; D007834:Lasers; D011817:Rabbits; D011833:Radiation Injuries, Experimental
D004396:Coloring Agents; C028433:chinese ink; D002244:Carbon