Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: A novel technique for treating peripheral retinal breaks following posterior vitreous detachment using TTT is described. Methods:Retinal tears were treated with a spot size selected to completely cover the lesion (as opposed to the conventional "triple row" of burns). A typical power of 800–100 mW and a pulse duration of 8–10 seconds created a gentle, homogeneous whitening effect in the region of and covering the retinal tear (figure). The objective was to create a fibroglial scar to seal the break. Patients underwent monthly review to ensure there was an established reaction around the tear. Results:The 10 patients in our initial series have demonstrated a satisfactory response to the laser within four weeks of treatment, with no complications. This technique is considered to be superior to conventional, triple row treatment with small spot laser therapy because it produces a more confluent reaction that entirely covers the break. Among the reported complications of TTT, only patient discomfort has occasionally been observed, but not sufficient to abandon the treatment Conclusions:TTT is a safe and effective therapy for retinal tears and has advantages over the more conventionally used techniques.
Keywords: clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: systems/equipment/techniques • laser • retina