Smart532
™
Clinical Guide
UM-1151440EN, Rev. C, May 2016 A-13
Note
● Users should be aware of general laser warnings, precautions,
and adverse effects listed in General Information in this
chapter.
● Refer to the Ophthalmology references in this chapter for
literature regarding the use of the laser in retinal laser
procedures.
Warning
● The most common complication is increased macular edema
secondary to pan-retinal photocoagulation, usually with a
concurrent decrease in visual acuity. Visual acuity loss is the
result of redirection of the blood flow from the shunting vessels
in the mid-periphery toward the macular region. In addition,
blowout hemorrhages from areas of neovascularization,
particularly on the optic nerve, have been observed. These
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 will 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.
Macular striae and increases in vitreoretinal traction are occasionally
observed, particularly in advanced diabetic retinopathy. These areas, as
well as zones along the vitreous base, should be observed closely so that
pars plana vitrectomy can be used, if necessary, to alleviate excessive
vitreoretinal traction caused by pan-retinal photocoagulation.
In rare cases, rapidly maturing cataract or lenticular opacities developed as
a result of photocoagulation
23
.
23
Straub W. Complications after photocoagulation and cryotherapy. Klin Monbl
Augenheikd 171:317-21, 1977.
Laser Procedures
and
Complications
To Next Page
Loading...
