Evaluation of the ability of a photocoagulator to rupture the retinal vein and bruch's membrane for potential vein bypass in retinal vein Occlusion

Background and objective: To evaluate the laser power required to rupture both the retinal vein and Bruch's membrane in a porcine model using a new laser system for treatment of retinal vein occlusion. Materials and methods: The retina was treated in areas with and without an overlying vein. Sections through the laser sites were stained for light and transmission electron microscopy. The percentage of the laser sites with rupture of the retinal vein and Bruch's membrane, the degree of tissue damage, and the diameter of the rupture in Bruch's membrane were determined. Results: The rate of vein rupture was 75% at 3 W, and rupture of Bruch's membrane was achieved at all powers tested. The mean diameter of the rupture in Bruch's membrane increased with laser power. Conclusion: The Integre Duo laser system (Ellex Medical Lasers, Adelaide, Australia) is capable of rupturing the retinal vein and Bruch's membrane at lower powers than prior laser systems.