Endolaser Power During Vitrectomy Can be Reduced by Use of Irrigation Solutions Heated to 37 oCelsius

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To demonstrate that power of diode endolaser required for coagulation of RPE at posterior pole of retina is influenced by temperature of irrigation fluids used for vitrectomy. Methods: 25 patients were vitrectomized using an irrigation fluid at room temperature (group 1). Another 25 patients were operated using irrigation fluid heated to 37 C (group 2). Laser power required for production of minimal whitening of retinal pigment epithelium was measured in both groups using a standardized protocol. Results: Laser power in group 1 (room temperature) was between 200 and 700 mW (mean 398 mW). In group 2 (37 C) laser power was between 150 and 450 mW (mean 276 mW) only. The difference was statistically significant (P<0.03). Conclusion: Use of irrigation fluids heated to body temperature can reduce power of diode endolaser required for coagulation of RPE at posterior pole of retina during vitrectomy. Nevertheless variations of laser power up to 300 percent existed within both groups. These differences are probably related to variations in pigmentation. A careful adjustment of diode laser power is therefore required in individual patients.

Keywords: 454 laser • 308 age-related macular degeneration • 628 vitreoretinal surgery