Features of Laser-Induced Modification of Sclera and Cornea

Results are presented from studying collagen degradation in scleral and corneal tissues upon CW IR laser irradiation at a wavelength of 1.56 mu m and powers of 1.4 and 7 W. The exposure time is such that the radiometrically determined maximum tissue temperature ranges from 55 to 70A degrees C. It is shown that at a power of 1.4 W, laser-induced collagen denaturation in sclera and cornea starts at 55 and 60A degrees C, respectively. When the power is increased to 7 W, the temperature of denaturation onset rises by 2A degrees C. These findings are discussed from the viewpoint of the joint photothermal and photomechanical effects of laser irradiation.