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Effect of volatile compounds on excimer laser power delivery
Stewart D Van Horn1, John A Hovanesian, Robert K Maloney
1Jules Stein Eye Institute, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
Journal of Refractive Surgery (Thorofare, N.J. : 1995)
|October 4, 2002
Summary
Perfume vapors, not other tested compounds, progressively reduced excimer laser beam power. Laser centers should prohibit perfumes in the laser suite to maintain optimal laser optics performance.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Laser Physics
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Excimer lasers are crucial for ophthalmic procedures like photorefractive keratectomy.
- Potential environmental contaminants in the laser suite may affect laser performance.
- Understanding the impact of volatile compounds on laser optics is essential for patient safety and procedural efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of common volatile compounds on excimer laser beam power delivery.
- To determine if vapors from perfumes, hairspray, or paints degrade laser optics.
Main Methods:
- An Apex Plus excimer laser's beam power was measured using a digital calorimeter.
- Power delivery was assessed before, during, and after exposure to perfume, hairspray, oil-based paint, and water-based paint vapors.
- Multiple trials were conducted to analyze changes in laser energy over time.
Main Results:
- No immediate change in laser energy was observed with any tested volatile compound.
- Perfume vapors led to a progressive decline in laser beam power during trials.
- No significant difference in power decline was noted between different perfume types, suggesting a general effect.
Conclusions:
- While not causing immediate power loss, perfumes degrade excimer laser optics over time.
- The study recommends advising patients and staff against wearing perfumes in the laser suite.
- Preventing perfume use can help maintain optimal laser performance and prevent potential optic damage.