Clinical studies on the efficiency of high power laser radiation upon some structures of the anterior segment of the eye. First experiences of the treatment of some pathological conditions of the anterior segment of the human eye by means of a Q-switched laser system.

A series of pathological conditions such as pupillary block glaucoma, angle block glaucoma, acoria, pupillary membranes and goniosynechias of various origins have been treated successfully by means of pulses emitted from a Nd:YAG Q-switched laser above optical breakdown threshold. Since linear absorption is not required, non-pigmented or entirely transparent structures are easily dissected by this method. We have also opened the supraciliary and suprachoroidal space in a series of cases of wide angle glaucomas. In all cases however, the clefts closed by secondary wound reactions. This method may be applied to extracapsular cataract surgery for opening the anterior capsule before lens extraction and to the hydrophthalmic eye.