Laser injuries of the eye

Abstract

With the increasing use of lasers in the military and industry, a moderate number of significant retina injuries have occurred. These injuries have been due to lasers in the visible and near-infrared spectrum primarily, with a pulse duration in the nanosecond range. Use of lasers in the ophthalmic community has resulted also in structural damage to the cornea, lens, IOL, and retina. Because we have no proven treatment for most injuries to the retina, we must continue to strongly emphasize the use of wavelength-specific protective goggles to try to prevent future eye injuries.