[ND YAG laser in senile cataract microsurgery]

To enlarge indications for Nd YAG laser anterior capsulotomy in extracapsular extraction of senile cataract and to improve the methods for its implementation.

Nd YAG laser anterior capsulotomy we accomplished in 618 eyes of patients with senile cataract. The eyes we divided in groups according to the matureness of the cataracta. The laser capsulotomy was implemented during the ECCE. We created the methods we used: "symmetric ascending on circumference", "horizontal linerar", "circular", "methods for expholiations".

In all 618 eyes we implemented successful Nd YAG laser anterior capsulotomy. It had smooth edges and was precise, sharply shared and executed with maximum saving of the adjacent tissue. The Nd YAG laser anterior capsulotomy as part of the ECCE helped to minimize duration of the surgery intervention and to increase the number of the operations, which can be implemented in the surgical time. We enlarged the indications for Nd YAG laser anterior capsulotomy in extracapsular extraction of senile cataract and opposing to other authors /7/ we agreed that as a method it is extremely appropriate in cases like cataracta senilis, matura and hypermatura in which an instrumental surgical intervention is possible to lead to some complications concerning zonula Zinni damaging.

The use of Nd YAG laser for capsulotomy during the ECCE gives the opportunity to anticipate the pathological response of the eye tissues and to retain clear cornea and normal IOP. The methods we offered--"symmetric ascending on circumference", "horizontal linerar", "circular" and "methods for expholiations"--support the implementation of precise, sharply shared anterior capsulotomy with maximum preserving of the adjacent tissue. The successful capsulotomy provides for optimum conditions for the next steps in the operation, minimization of the surgical time, tranquil postoperative period. The Nd YAG laser anterior capsulotomy has found its place as a part of the modern ophthalmosurgery.