Nd: YAG laser of Weiss Ring for the Treatment of Symptomatic Vitreous Floaters in Patients with Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Doi: 10.36351/pjo.v40i4.1848

Abstract

Purpose:  To assess the effect of Nd: YAG laser vitreolysis of the Weiss ring in the management of symptomatic vitreous floaters in patients with posterior vitreous detachment in the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital.

Study Design:  Quasi-experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study:  This quasi-experimental trial was conducted in the out-patient department (OPD) of The Layton Rahmatullah Benevolent Trust (LRBT) Tertiary Teaching Eye Hospital, Korangi, Karachi from February 2023 to July 2023.

Methods:  In this study, 75 eyes of 75 patients were selected using non-probability purposive sampling technique. Dilated fundus examination was performed and The National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire 25 (NEI VFQ-25) was used and compared pre and post Laser Floater Treatment (LFT).

Results:  Out of 75 eyes, 65 patients were included in final analysis. Mean age was 54.63±4.1 years. Out of these, 69.2% were 48–56 years old and 56.9% were females. Mean number of shots were 160±15.53. Mean Pre-LFT, VFQ was 56±5.89 and post-LFT was 74±13.2. The mean difference pre versus post treatment was -18 units with p<0.001. Twenty patients complained of blurring of vision and one patient suffered mild retinal hemorrhage which resolved spontaneously, two patients were lost to follow up.

Conclusion:  Nd: YAG laser vitreolysis of the Weiss ring can be a quick, and effective treatment option in patients suffering from symptoms of vitreous floaters after a posterior vitreous detachment. However, more trials with large number of patients and longer follow up durations are required for generalization of results.