[Necrolytic properties of alkaline protease in the treatment of severe eye burns].

Both eyes of 62 rabbits (124 eyes) were experimentally studied. Necrolytic properties of alkaline protease were examined on a model of an isolated alkaline retinal burn by 10% NaOH with a 10 sec exposure; the protease optimal concentration and an optimal exposure were determined. It was established that a necrolytic effect correlating with that of lecozyme can be achieved when a protease solution with an activity of 25-27 PE is used. An increased activity of protease in the solution results not only in hydrolysis of the turbid corneal part, but it also melts the perifocal area entailing a danger of perforation. Alkaline protease can be used as an ointment to ensure the necrolytic effect, however, its dosage in such medication form must be above 30-35 PE. The administration of a preliminary enzymatic necrectomy produced a positive effect on the postoperative cause and the results of keratoplasty as compared with surgical necrectomy, which can be explained by a better quality necrectomy involving the use of alkaline protease.