Clinical Ophthalmology (May 2024)
Direct Applications of Non-Thermal Atmospheric Pressure Plasma: An Emerging Therapeutic Era in Ophthalmology
Abstract
Aisha S Al-Battashy,1 Arwa A Al-Mujaini,2 Abdullah S Al-Mujaini3 1PGY2, Ophthalmology Residency Program, Oman Medical Specialty Board, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman; 2PGY2, Radiology Residency Program, Oman Medical Specialty Board, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman; 3Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of OmanCorrespondence: Abdullah S Al-Mujaini, Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, PO Box: 35, Al Khoud, Muscat, PC 123, Sultanate of Oman, Tel +968 99317397, Fax +968 24144864, Email [email protected]: This article explores the burgeoning role of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) in ophthalmology. The versatile nature of CAP has transformed various facets of eye care, offering novel possibilities across different clinical domains. From sterilizing surgical instruments without compromising their integrity to effectively managing challenging corneal diseases like microbial keratitis and fungal infections, CAP has shown promising results. Moreover, its potential role in promoting corneal wound healing, facilitating corneal transplants, and enhancing outcomes in cataract surgeries deserves attention. The low-tension plasma blade (ie, the Fugo blade™, Medisurg Ltd. Norristown, PA), a controlled and precise form of CAP, has emerged as a game-changer in delicate eye surgeries. Its unmatched precision, minimal tissue damage, and surgeon-friendly nature have revolutionized ophthalmic procedures, including ptosis correction, dry eye treatment, and conjunctival cyst ablation. Despite conflicting findings on the efficacy of this technology in certain aspects, the extensive body of research on CAP underscores its potential for wider ophthalmic integration. Further investigation, including human trials, is crucial for understanding the in vivo safety profile of CAP for ophthalmic applications and optimizing its use, potentially revolutionizing ocular disease management and improving patient outcomes.Keywords: cold atmospheric plasma, low-tension plasma blade, fugo blade, sterilization and disinfection techniques, wound healing, ablation and dissection
