Iridex PASCAL Synthesis - Adverse Effects and Complications; Posterior Segment Laser Procedures; Anterior Segment Laser Procedures

PASCAL
®
Synthesis Ophthalmic Scanning Laser Systems Page 29 of 141
88292-EN, Rev D
Adverse Effects and Complications
Posterior Segment Laser Procedures
WARNING
The most common complication of panretinal photocoagulation is increased macular edema
usually with a concurrent decrease in visual acuity. In addition, blowout hemorrhages from
the areas of neovascularization, particularly on the optic nerve, have been observed and may
be caused by an increase in peripheral resistance secondary to photocoagulation or by an
inadvertent valsalva maneuver by the patient.
Only a contact lens specifically designed for use with laser energy should be used. Use of a
standard diagnostic contact lens may result in a power loss due to reflection from the surface
of the lens. The reflected energy may pose a hazard to both the patient and the physician.
WARNING
Following photocoagulation, patients should be cautioned against any activity that could
increase the venous pressure in the head, neck or eyes, such as straining, lifting or holding
their breath. Patients should be advised to sleep with the head of their bed elevated 15 to 20
degrees.
Patients should be cautioned against stifling a sneeze, because this raises the blood
pressure within the eyes to a high level. Vigorous nose blowing should also be discouraged.
Rubbing the eyes following photocoagulation may disrupt blood vessels inside the eyes.
Sneezing and coughing should be controlled with cough syrup or other medications.
Immediately following treatment, patients should avoid altitudes over 2500 m (~8000 ft.).
Anterior Segment Laser Procedures
WARNING
Intraocular pressure should be closely monitored following laser iridotomy or trabeculoplasty.
Hemorrhage from the trabecular meshwork occasionally occurs as an ooze of blood from
Schlemm’s canal to the site of laser impact. This is easily stopped by increasing the pressure
on the gonio lens on the cornea or by coagulating the bleeding site by application of a laser
burn.
Pupillary distortion may be encountered if the iris root or peripheral iris has been treated. This
distortion may or may not be permanent, depending on the severity of the accidental