Experimental transient exudative retinal detachment in the rat

P. G. Theodosiadis, R. S. Moulton, A. W. Walsh, E. S. Gragoudas and D. J. D'Amico
Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston.

OBJECTIVE: To establish a new model of exudative retinal detachment in the rat. METHODS: Photothrombosis was produced in a single retinal vein using direct treatment with a dye laser operating in the yellow wavelength (577 nm). Control eyes received identical laser applications, but treatment was placed alongside the vessel and photothrombosis was not produced. Eyes were examined at intervals during the subsequent week with ophthalmoscopy, photography, fluorescein angiography, and light microscopy. RESULTS: In 13 (41%) of 32 eyes with photothrombosis, bullous retinal detachments developed 1 day after laser treatment, and continued occlusion of the vein was confirmed with fluorescein angiography. Detachments persisted for 2 to 4 days and spontaneously resolved; resolution coincided with restored venous patency at 5 to 7 days. None of the 20 control eyes developed bullous detachments (P < .005). CONCLUSIONS: Laser photothrombosis in the rat offers a simple and accessible model of transient exudative retinal detachment without the need for exogenous chromophores.