[Principles and histologic effects of the treatment of hypertension with focused high-intensity ultrasound]

Abstract

Focused high-intensity ultra-sound is used to treat glaucoma. Histopathologic examinations of rabbit and pig eyes following therapeutic ultrasound demonstrated highly localized lesions including destruction of the ciliary epithelium and thinning of the sclera. The bond between the sclera and the ciliary epithelium is weakened. The conjunctiva remains intact. The histologic findings in human eye enucleated after ultra-sound therapy are identical. Three mechanisms for pressure reduction are proposed: transscleral outflow of aqueous humor can occur under the overlying conjunctiva; focal destruction of the ciliary epithelium can reduce aqueous production; scleral scarring produces the potential for separation of the ciliary body and the sclera.