[Experimental studies of changes in corneal refraction after use of Nd: YAG laser]

Using Nd: YAG laser 600-800 photodisruptions were made in the cornea of freshly enucleated pigs' eyes. The coagulations were placed in 1/3 superficial part of corneal stroma along circles of 4 mm and 5 mm in diameter. Histological examination revealed spherical empty spaces in the area of coagulations. Corneal epithelium and endothelium were not impaired. The mean decrease of corneal refraction was 1.6 D with the 5 mm circle and 1.3 D with the 4 mm circle. After 24 hours the refraction was further decreased, about 1.3 D on the average in both groups.