Laser energy levels for trabecular meshwork damage in the primate eye.

The authors treated the trabecular meshwork of 17 primate eyes with the argon laser by a variety of protocols in an attempt to cause moderate, consistent intraocular pressure elevation. This was achieved most satisfactorily with deliveries of 0.5 to 1.0 seconds and a total energy of at least 50 joules. The method allows production of a satisfactory laser-induced model of chronic glaucoma with one treatment session in most eyes. This experience provides a measure of the upper limit of acceptable total laser energy for therapeutic procedures in humans with this instrument. Delivery durations longer than 0.1 sec should be used with caution in trabeculoplasty.