Effect of laser peripheral iridotomy using argon and neodymium-YAG lasers on corneal endothelial cell density: 7-year longitudinal evaluation

摘要

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the changes in corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) over a 7-year period after laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) using argon and neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers. Study design Retrospective case series. Methods Eyes that underwent prophylactic LPI using argon and Nd:YAG lasers were followed up for 7 years. Central corneal endothelial cells were observed by use of noncontact specular microscopy preoperatively and at 1 and 7 years postoperatively. Changes in ECD and the associations between preoperative ECD and the total energy of the Nd:YAG laser were evaluated. Results Fifty-one eyes of 51 patients were followed up for 7 years. The ECD significantly decreased after LPI ( P P = 0.036, 95% CI: -0.07% to 0.41%). No association was found between the preoperative ECD and the total laser energy. Conclusions Long-term evaluation indicated that the reduction in ECD after argon-Nd:YAG laser LPI was present but small during the initial year and was negligible after 1 year.