Ultrasound enhanced thrombolysis in experimental retinal vein occlusion in the rabbit

Br J Ophthalmol. 1998 Dec;82(12):1438-40. doi: 10.1136/bjo.82.12.1438.

Abstract

Aims: To investigate if it was possible to lower the dose of streptokinase and maintain an effective thrombolysis by adding pulsed low energy ultrasound.

Methods: 53 retinal veins in 27 rabbits were occluded by rose bengal enhanced laser treatment. Six rabbits were treated with streptokinase (50,000 IU/kg), 10 rabbits were treated with a low dose of streptokinase (25,000 IU/kg), and 11 rabbits were treated with a low dose of streptokinase (25,000 IU/kg) and pulsed ultrasound during 1 hour. Fluorescein angiography was performed immediately before the thrombolytic treatment and after 12 hours.

Results: In the group treated with streptokinase (50,000 IU/kg) all vessels were open. In the group that was given streptokinase (25,000 IU/kg), 21% of the vessels were open. In the group that was treated with streptokinase (25,000 IU/kg) and ultrasound, 64% of the vessels were open. The difference between groups 2 and 3 is statistically significant (p = 0.011)

Conclusion: Adding pulsed low energy ultrasound makes it possible to lower the dose of streptokinase while maintaining a good thrombolytic effect.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Fibrinolytic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Rabbits
  • Retinal Vein Occlusion / drug therapy*
  • Streptokinase / therapeutic use*
  • Thrombolytic Therapy / methods*
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional / methods*

Substances

  • Fibrinolytic Agents
  • Streptokinase