Abstract
Purpose::
To evaluate the staining effect and safety of a dye extracted from natural chlorophyll for intraocular surgery.
Methods::
Na-Pheophobide a (Na-Phde a) (molecular weight 614, pH 7.5) was diluted to concentrations of 0.7, 1.7, 3.5 and 7.0 mg/ml using balanced salt solution (BSS). The staining of the lens capsule and retina in enucleated pig eyes was graded according to the degree of visualization. To stain the lens capsule, the anterior chamber was filled with air before dye injection. After 1 minute, the dye was washed out by irrigation with BSS. After triamcinolone-assisted pars plana vitrectomy, the dye was dripped onto the retina under a condition of air-filled vitreous cavity. The toxicity of dye was assessed in rabbit eyes. Histological sections of eyes were analyzed by light microscopy.
Results::
Adequate staining of the lens capsule and retina was obtained at dye concentrations of 3.5 and 7.0 mg/ml. Na-Phde a improved visualization of the capsular edge. Continuous curvilinear capsulorrhexis could be performed easily and completely. No histological abnormalities were seen after the application of the dye to rabbit eyes, at all the concentrations examined.
Conclusions::
Na-Phde a is effective and safe in staining the lens capsule and retina. This dye seems to be potentially useful for intra ocular surgery.
Keywords: drug toxicity/drug effects • pathology: experimental • cataract