[A new device technic for cryotherapy of glaucoma]

With nitrogen cryotherapy, the authors achieve lasting normalization of intraocular pressure in more than 90% of their primary glaucoma cases. To accomplish this, the therapeutic parameters (working temperature, diameter of the applicator tip, duration of application, number of application points, applicator contact pressure) must be strictly defined and coordinated. The applicator contact pressure has hitherto been neglected in published data, although it dictates the heat transfer resistance between the applicator and the surface of the bulb and is therefore a major factor influencing the therapeutic effect. A device was therefore developed which indicates the applicator contact pressure continuously during therapy, both optically and acoustically. It renders cryotherapy just as effective as microsurgical methods, with no side-effects.