OBJECTIVES

This study was achieved at the Clinic of Surgery and Ophthalmology of Faculty of Veterinary Sciences between the years of 1998 and 2000. Our study aimed to answer the following questions:

1.  Is TSCP an effective method for lowering the IOP in dogs?

2.  Is decreasing in the IOP significant and long term?

3.  Has TSCP selective photocoagulative effect?

4.  Has TSCP any complication?

MATERIALS

Iris Oculight dioda laser equipment (Iris Medical Co., USA) with the Iris G-probe contact hand piece was used for the therapy. Animals went under general light anaesthesia with propofol-isoflurane combination. Animals (eyes) were divided into 3 groups: - Group I: experiments, n=8; Group II: patients operated with TSCP, n=23; Group III: control, animals with glaucoma which were treated only medically, n=8. Detailed eye examination were done with slit-lamp biomicroscope, applanation tonometer and indirect binocular ophthalmoscope prior and after to TSCP. The visual function also was evaluated. On base of the literature 35 treatment expositions were done with 3-4 mm posteriorly to the limbus. Duration of the expositions were 1500 msec and the energy level of the laser light was adjusted between 1100 and 1600 mWatt. Postoperative management was performed with topical and systemic nonsteroids and topical antibiotics. The follow up observation period was 6 months.

RESULTS

The average value of IOP's was 14,75 mmHg in Group I. and it has decreased on 9,75 mmHg at the end of the observation period. The average value of IOP's was high, 66,52 in Group II. and it has decreased on 19,13 mmHg at the end of the observation period. All of the eyes were painless and cosmetic in this group. The preoperatively visual two eyes remained functional after TSCP in this group. The average value of IOP's was high, 58,25 in GROUP III and practically hasn't changed at the end of the observation period.

CONCLUSION

1.  TSCP is an effective method for lowering the IOP in dogs.

2.  Decreasing in the IOP was significant and long term - examined by paired t-test and two sample t-test

3.  TSCP did not cause selective cyclodestruction.

4.  There were few side effects registered after TSCP (scleral thinning 73%, corneal ulceration 17%)

We stated that TSCP is a valuable alternate method for treatment of glaucoma in dogs.- Equipment in excellent condition and correct performance is essential.- TSCP performed in acute glaucoma can result visual eyes. TSCP performed in chronic glaucoma can result painless, cosmetic eyes. Aim- in the future: correct diagnosis of glaucoma and earlier intervention with TSCP.