In order to study the effects of operating microscope on retina and the protective action of vitamin E (VE). Method The eyes of guinea-pig were exposed to the light of operating microscope in 15. 30. 60 and 90 minutes

the VE were administrated 2 hours before exposure and 1 or 6 hours after exposure. Results The results showed that pronounced ultrastructural alteration of retina and distinct decrease in SOD. GSH-PX were detectecd in the 15 - minute exposed group.The ultrastructural damage extent of retina and decrease of SOD. GSH - PX as well as increase in MDA were paralled to the length of the exposed time.The damage of cone cell was more prominent than rod cell.The protective effectof VE on the visual cell and Bruch’s membrane were

obvious

and the protective effect of the VE administration 2 hours before exposure were better than 1 and 6 hours after exposure.However

no protective effect was found on retinal pigmental epitbalium with the dosage and administration way of VE in this study. Conclusion The light of operating microscope could induce the photogenic retinal damage.VE was an offective protective medicine for lightinduced retinopathy.