Dual delivery system for argon laser photocoagulation. Improved techniques of the binocular indirect argon laser photocoagulator.

A dual delivery system provided alternate delivery of the laser beam to the slit lamp and binocular ophthalmoscope. Ophthalmologists may choose between the two systems in accordance with the nature and location of the fundus lesion. A pilot study comparing the rate of laser hit between the slit-lamp photocoagulator and the binocular indirect argon laser photocoagulator (BIALP) showed that accuracy was better with the slit lamp and BIALP when they were operated in the sitting position than with the BIALP operated in the standing position. A photo-electric safety switch was attached to the blocking filter of the BIALP to protect operator's and patient's eyes. The improved machine and techniques increased the efficiency and safety of argon laser photocoagulation. Postoperative use of the BIALP was of particular value. Laser photocoagulation in children's eyes became possible for the first time with the BIALP.