[Photorefractive keratectomy. Free-running vs. q-switched Er:YAG laser (scanning mode)].
BACKGROUND
Examination of morphology in plane corneal ablation (in vitro) induced by an Er:YAG-laser (2.94 microns) in two modes: free-running (50 microseconds) and q-switched (200 ns).


METHODS
Sequences of different fluences in each mode were applied to freshly enucleated swine eyes. Parameters of free-running mode: fluences 1.21-4.77 J/cm2, frequency 80 Hz, spot size 500 microns FWHM, hexagonal spot shape. Parameters of q-switched mode: fluences 0.79-2.33 J/cm2, frequency 20 Hz, spot size 500 microns FWHM, round spot shape.


RESULTS
Histology showed thermal damage of 10-25 microns in depth caused by the free-running mode compared with 4.5-7.5 microns by the q-switched mode. In both gross photography and scanning electron microscopic examination, the surface was found to be more homogeneous and smoother in the q-switched mode.


CONCLUSIONS
Depending on the different application modes, both laser systems could be used for a defined corneal ablation in photorefractive keratectomy. However, at the moment, results using the Er:YAG laser are not as favorable as with the excimer laser.
Kampmeier
J
J
Universitäts-Augenklinik Ulm.
Schäfer
S
S
Lang
G E
GE
Lang
G K
GK
D000818:Animals; D002452:Cell Count; D003315:Cornea / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D004728:Endothelium, Corneal / Q000293:injuries / Q000473:pathology; D054018:Lasers, Excimer; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D018903:Photorefractive Keratectomy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D012307:Risk Factors; D013552:Swine