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Non-Therapeutic Laser Retinal Injury
Patrick W Commiskey1, Curtis J Heisel1, Yannis M Paulus1,2
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, the United State.
International Journal of Ophthalmic Research
|September 14, 2020
Summary
Non-therapeutic laser eye injuries are rising due to increased laser use and accessibility. Public health, policy, and improved diagnosis and treatment are crucial to minimize harm from these preventable injuries.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Public Health
Background:
- Lasers are integral to commercial, industrial, military, and medical fields.
- The retina's vulnerability to laser damage is due to the eye's optical properties.
- Increasing laser ubiquity necessitates vigilance against non-therapeutic eye injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the landscape of non-therapeutic laser eye injuries.
- To highlight injury circumstances, tissue types, and damage mechanisms.
- To inform public health and policy regarding laser safety.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review was performed using the PubMed database.
- Case reports and series were analyzed to represent diverse injury scenarios.
- Data on laser characteristics and injury outcomes were synthesized.
Main Results:
- Laser industry growth and online accessibility correlate with increased eye injury reports.
- Inconsistent regulations and varied laser parameters (wavelength, power) contribute to injury risk.
- A review of 68 cases illustrates the spectrum of laser eye injury presentations and outcomes.
Conclusions:
- The rising incidence of non-therapeutic laser eye injuries demands attention.
- Enhanced public health strategies and policy interventions are required.
- Improved diagnostic and treatment protocols are essential for managing these injuries.
