In vitro Models of Laser Induced Injury: Pathophysiology and Cytoprotection
Abstract
Lasers generating predominantly thermal energy are used in medicine and research for a variety of purposes including surgical excision, pan retinal photocoagulation for treating diabetic retinopathy, cornea shape remodeling, treatment of photoaged skin, and hair removal. Not surprisingly, there has been an increase in the number of laser injuries, especially eye injuries, due to laser misuse or accidents over the last four decades. When sufficient energy is provided, most visible and near infrared wavelength laser systems will damage the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). This damage is generally due to thermal injury. Of particular concern is thermal laser injury to the macular region of the retina, which may result in a blinding trauma that produces an immediate psychological and physical debilitation. To provide rational treatments for laser-induced injury, a better understanding of the nature of this injury is required. To this end, we established methods for studying laser-induced injury with in vitro models utilizing cultured human cells.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 29, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA477739
Entities
People
- Phillip D. Bowman
- Steven T. Schuschereba
Organizations
- United States Army Institute of Surgical Research