how does a laser probe, such as those used in ophthalmic surgery actually work?

Question

i am especially interested in those used in vitrectomys. do they simply melt the vitreous humour?

Answer 1

we don't use the laser to remove vitreous , we remove vitreous using a vitrctomy probe which contains a suction inlet and a periodic micro-cutter , the endo laser is used to create a burn in the retina and adjacent layers to stimulate fibrosis that will hold those layers together [ like burning around a retinal tear ]

Answer 2

The laser probe is a fiber optic cable. It may have a lens on the end to focus the light at a certain distance.

After the vitrectomy portion is done, and the vitreous is gone, different fluids are used to flatten the retina if it's detached by being 'heavy'. Then the retina is against the Retinal Pigment and Choroid layers. Laser sends out energy in the form of light which heats the tissues. The laser energy used should be just that to create a cream colored burn White ones are a bit too hot. Sometimes it will causes a miniexplosion, creating a new hole.

These burns cause scaring which keeps the area around the tear or hole sealed so no fluid will get under the retina again.

The laser causes a burn....