Role of Brimonidine on Intraocular Pressure after Nd: YAG Laser Posterior Capsulotomy

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of topical brimonidine 0.2% on intraocular pressure (IOP) after Neodymium: yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy.

METHOD: fifty patients (50 eyes) who underwent posterior capsulotomy were included in the study. Patients were divided into Groups A and B. Topical brimonidine was applied half an hour before and just after laser procedure in Group A. Group B was control group. Intraocular pressures of the patients were measured using Goldmann applanation tonometry before procedure, after half an hour, on day one and a week after laser procedures.

RESULT: Mean IOP at baseline was 14.7±3 mmHg in Group A and 14.6±3.9 mmHg in Group B. In Group A, IOP decreased to 12.7±3.3 mmHg after half an hour, 13.7±2.3 mmHg after 1 day, and 14.2±2.3 mmHg after 1 week. The values were measured respectively as 15.1±2.9 mmHg, 14.9±2.1 mmHg, and 14.5±2 mmHg in Group B. IOP had decreased significantly at half an hour and at 1 day after laser treatment when compared with baseline in Group A; no significant difference was found after 1 week. No statistically significant difference was found during follow- up period compared to baseline in Group B.

CONCLUSION: Use of brimonidine was demonstrated to prevent rise in IOP.