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Light flashbacks during retinal laser photocoagulation following fluorescein angiography
Matthew C Bujak1, Mark S Mandelcorn, John A Parker
1Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Secondary emission from fluorescein dye used in angiography can reach ophthalmologists during laser procedures. This study found that fluorescein absorbs commonly used laser wavelengths, potentially posing a risk during treatment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Physics
- Biomedical Optics
Background:
- Yellow light flashbacks are observed during laser photocoagulation post-fluorescein angiography.
- Concerns exist regarding secondary emission from retained fluorescein reaching ophthalmologists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the absorption characteristics of sodium fluorescein at various concentrations and wavelengths.
- To determine if secondary emission from fluorescein can reach ophthalmologists during laser procedures.
Main Methods:
- Sodium fluorescein serial dilutions were analyzed using a spectrophotometer.
- Absorption was measured at wavelengths of 488 nm, 518 nm, 568 nm, and 647 nm.
Main Results:
- Fluorescein absorbed blue (488 nm) and green (518 nm) light at all tested concentrations.
- Significant absorption of yellow light (568 nm) was observed above 100,000 ng/mL.
- Minimal absorption of red light (647 nm) occurred below 3,000,000 ng/mL.
Conclusions:
- Fluorescein absorbs commonly used laser wavelengths.
- Potential for fluorescein to emit light (450-700 nm) that may not be blocked by current laser system filters.
- Risk of secondary emission exposure to ophthalmologists during laser procedures.
