Repeated use of transscleral cyclophotocoagulation laser G-probes.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the energy transmission of transscleral cyclophotocoagulation laser G-probes after repeated use.

METHODS

In this prospective study, eight new laser probes were each used for 30 transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCPC) sessions in cadaver human eyes with the laser settings of 2000 mW power, 2000 milliseconds duration, and 18 shots. The laser power output was measured using a laser energy output meter before and after each TSCPC 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. Laser probes were inspected for deterioration. Statistical analysis was done using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA).

RESULTS

The laser power output increased on average by 1.99 +/- 0.18 mW after each cycle (P < 0.01, 95% confidence interval: 1.63-2.35 mW, ANCOVA). No deterioration of the probes was found after 30 TSCPC and sterilization cycles. Laser energy output increased on average 6% (P < 0.01) from the baseline to the first TSCPC cycle. Probe number one broke during the tenth cycle and accordingly data was recorded for this probe until that cycle.

CONCLUSION

G-probes not only remain fully functional after repeated use and sterilization with 70% alcohol but also slightly increase in energy output.