Laser Vitreolysis for Vitreous Opacities: A Prospective Study

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a YAG laser vitreolysis procedure used to remove bothersome vitreous opacities/floaters. Methods: The prospective clinical study included 42 eyes of 35 patients (age 32-81 years) with vitreous opacities generating visual disturbances. All patients were treated using the Ellex - Ultra Q Reflex YAG laser and underwent a complete eye examination before the laser vitreolysis and at 1, 3 and 6 months after the intervention. Changes in corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), intraocular pressure (IOP) and patient's subjective perception of disturbances were analysed. Results: The average number of laser shots was 118 (6 - 310 shots), with a total average energy of 3.8 mJ per laser shot (2.2 - 9 mJ). The laser intervention was performed only once in a total of 31 eyes (73.8%), whereas it was necessary to perform the intervention twice in 10 cases (23.8%). No significant differences in CDVA were detected during the whole follow-up (p>0.40). No significant changes were found either in CRT (p>0.32). Concerning IOP (p<0.001), it was reduced significantly immediately after the intervention, returning to the pre-intervention level afterwards. The analysis of the responses to the questionnaire revealed that there was a mean improvement in subjective visual symptoms according to patients of 71%. No complications were detected in the sample during the follow-up. Conclusion: Laser vitreolysis is a minimally invasive treatment, allowing a complete or partial elimination of vitreous opacities and leading to alleviation of patient's disturbances.