The effect of low-frequency ultrasound on the functional and morphological state of the retina of rabbits

Abstract

Currently, three groups of scientists are developing the introduction and use of lowfrequency ultrasound in retinal and vitreous surgery. There is not enough data and work to study the effects of this type of energy on the functional activity and structural state of the retina. In this regard, we conducted experimental and diagnostic studies using modern and objective methods. The main purpose of this article is analyzing the parameters of the electroretinogram of the rabbit retina and compare it with histological data after removal of the vitreous body using low-frequency ultrasound and mechanical action. Experiments were conducted on Chinchilla rabbits (n=40). In the experimental group (n=20), vitreous removal was performed using low-frequency ultrasound, in the control group (n=20) using a guillotine mechanism. On the 1st, 7th, 14th and 14th days, the parameters of the a- and b-waves of the electroretinogram were recorded. The structural state of the retina was also evaluated on histological sections. On the 1st day after surgery in both study groups there was a decrease in all parameters of the electroretinogram, the evaluation of histological data showed the presence of edema in most layers of the retina. On days 7 and 14, the parameters of the a- and b-waves were restored, but did not return to normal in both groups, a decrease in edema in all layers of the retina was observed on histological preparations. On day 30, the a- and b-wave indicators returned to normal, which indicates the restoration of the functional properties of photoreceptor cells, bipolar and Muller cells in both groups, the retinal layers were clearly visualized on histological sections without signs of edema. Analysis of electroretinogram parameters and histological data showed that the use of low-frequency ultrasound for vitreous removal can be considered safe and promising for further development.