Transscleral and intravitreal contact Nd:YAG laser application. An experimental study.

A contact Nd:YAG laser with a sapphire tip (convex surface 2 mm in diameter) was used to coagulate the retina and ciliary body through the sclera. The laser energy was successfully transmitted through the sclera, producing retinal coagulation and destruction of the ciliary body. A 0.2-mm diameter sapphire tip and Nd:YAG laser were used to perform transvitreal retinal coagulation, retinotomy, and retinochoroidal incision. Minimal hemorrhage occurred when retinochoroidotomy was done. Probe-tissue adhesion occurred but could easily be separated.