Argon laser photocoagulation of the posterior segment in pseudophakia.

A series of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies was performed to explore the safety and efficacy of argon laser and xenon arc photocoagulation in pseudophakia. The polymethylmethacrylate intracameral lens (Fyodorov) proved resistant to photothermal decomposition and allowed transmission of therapeutically effective energy levels to the retina. The argon laser delivered through a slit lamp and contact lens optical system appears to be the preferred method for posterior segment photocoagulation in pseudophakia. On the basis of five-day tissue culture studies and clinical experience of two years, the intracameral lens does not appear to be a toxic or transmission barrier to careful argon laser photocoagulation.