[Results of scanning electron microscopy following internal laser sclerostomy]

An experimental glaucoma-filtering procedure ab interno, laser sclerostomy, can be performed using the argon and Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. Compared with surgical techniques the advantages of laser sclerostomy are: minor trauma to the conjunctiva and no risk of infection. In this study 28 rabbit eyes were examined by histological techniques and by scanning electron microscopy 2 days or 4 months following laser sclerostomy. The internal fistular ostium as well as the scleral tunnel showed a relatively smooth margin. Two days after laser sclerostomy, endothelial cell damage was found in only a small area directly surrounding the internal ostium; 4 months later all of this damage was repaired.