Use of a pulsed picosecond Nd: YAG laser in 6,664 cases

We used a modulated picosecond Nd:YAG laser to perform preoperative anterior capsulotomies and posterior capsulotomies in eyes with and without an intraocular lens, and to cut a variety of cyclitic membranes, iridocapsular adhesions, and vitreous traction bands in more than 6,500 cases. The complications were transient bleeding when vascularized tissues were cut because the laser does not coagulate, temporary anterior chamber inflammation, and transient increased intraocular pressure. The last two were caused by released lens material and shock wave side effects.