Predilection of the Macular Region to High Incidence of Choroidal Neovascularization After Intense Laser Photocoagulation in the Monkey

Objective To determine the key factors for creating a high incidence model of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in the monkey.Methods Intense laser photocoagulation was performed in 8 eyes of 4 monkeys using krypton red and green-yellow and Alcon frequency-doubled diode ophthalmic lasers. Eight to 13 lesions were delivered to an area between the temporal vascular arcades in each eye. Development of CNV was monitored by fluorescein angiography at 2 and 4 weeks after laser treatment, and the results were correlated with histological analysis.Results A much higher incidence of CNV occurred in the macular region, which refers to an anatomic area equivalent to a mean ± SD 2.5 ± 0.4 times the horizontal diameter of the optic disc in the fundus. Regardless of the type of ophthalmic laser used, 72% of lesions developed fluorescein leakage within the macula, compared with 12% outside the macula (P