An Estimation of Nd: YAG Laser Capsulotomy Energy Level For Treating the Posterior Capsule Opacification
Keywords:
Posterior capsule opacification, visual axis, Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy, energy levelAbstract
Objective: The objective of this study is to estimate the Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy energy level
in milli joules (mJ) required to produce a clear visual axis in patients with posterior capsule
opacification (PCO) in the Pakistani population.
Material and Methods:138 eyes of the patients who were operated for cataract by routine
extracapsular cataract extraction ECCE or Phaco emulisification with intraocular lens implant
were included in the study. All had posterior capsule opacification and were treated with Nd;YAG
capsulotomy in the Department of Ophthalmology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Hospital, Lahore
from 1st January to 31st December 2011.
Results: Out of 138 eyes who were treated for PCO with Nd: yag laser the maximum energy
required was in the range of 1.2 4.0 mJ in 92.1% of the eyes and the no of shots were < 40 in 88.5
% of the patients eye which is considered to be a safe range thereby minimizing the
complications rate.
Conclusion: The Nd: YAG laser treatment is an effective technique to improve the hindered
vision by PCO. It is not free from complications, so it is advised to be conscious of the extra
damage to ocular tissues following Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy. It is also suggested that energy
level should be kept to a minimum level to avoid severe complications.