Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: To evaluate the energy transmition of transscleral cyclophtocoagulation laser G-probes after repeated use. Methods: In this prospective study 4 new laser probes were evaluated each for 30 transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSC) sessions in cadaver human eyes (settings:2000mW, 2000msec, 18 shots). The laser power output was measured by using a laser energy output meter (settings:2000mW, 9000msec,5 shots) before and after each TSC session, after swabbing the laser probe tip with alcohol and finally after thorough cleaning by flushing 70% alcohol inside the plastic footplate tip and swabbing with alcohol the fiberoptic tip. Irregularities in the aiming beam were recorded and laser probes inspected for deterioration by using a slit lamp.The t-test was used for statistic analysis. Results: No decrease was detected in the energy output for the probes or signs of deterioration were found after 30 sessions and sterilization cycles. Interestingly, the power output increased by 10%,8% and 20% respectively for probes number 1,2,and 3 (p<0.01). There was no change in power output for probe 4. Conclusions: Transscleral laser probes not only remain functional after repeated use and sterilization but increase energy transmission slightly after repeated use.
Keywords: clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: sys