Posters
Does YAG laser vitreolysis disrupt the vitreous? A case study using real-time ultrasound imaging
Poster Details
First Author: I.Singh USA
Co Author(s):
Abstract Details
Purpose:
To evaluate impact of YAG laser energy delivery on the vitreous during the treatment for vitreous floaters and determine if there is any disruption of the surrounding vitreous, potentially leading to retinal tears or holes.
Setting:
Office laser suite
Methods:
An ultrasound system with a specific B-Scan mode with a 12MHz annular probe for floater visualization was used to capture in real-time changes to the vitreous cavity during the procedure in 6 different eyes of 6 different patients. The use of the 12 MHz enabled the full visualization of the entire vitreous from lens to retina. Live videos were reviewed and any movement of vitreous was measured with a digital caliper. Treated floaters were located greater than 2 mm from retina. Treatment power settings ranged from 5 mJ - 8 mJ with an average number of shots of 324.
Results:
The clinical interpretation of the ultrasound video capture showed an attached retina, posterior vitreous detachment, moderate vitreous opacities, all with good mobility. There was no evidence of retinal tears or holes. The ultrasound imaging showed an air bubble artifact created by the vaporization of the floater which created a transient shadow. In addition, the ultrasound demonstrated the posterior hyaloid did not move during the live treatment of the vitreous opacity. There was also no observable vitreous movement seen 1 mm or greater in any direction from the treatment zone during the procedure.
Conclusions:
The results of this ultrasound imaging case study demonstrate that there is little to no disturbances of the vitreous during laser vitreolysis. These findings should re-assure clinicians who are concerned about the treatment of vitreous floaters and its impact on the vitreous cavity and retina.
Financial Disclosure:
... receives consulting fees, retainer, or contract payments from a company producing, developing or supplying the product or procedure presented
