What is laser photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy?

Laser Photocoagulation for Diabetic Retinopathy

Laser photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy: Overview

Laser photocoagulation uses the heat from a laser to seal or destroy abnormal, leaking blood vessels in the retina. One of two approaches may be used when treating diabetic retinopathy:

Focal photocoagulation.

Focal treatment is used to seal specific leaking blood vessels in a small area of the retina, usually near the macula. The ophthalmologist identifies individual blood vessels for treatment and makes a limited number of laser burns to seal them off.

Scatter (pan-retinal) photocoagulation.

Scatter treatment is used to slow the growth of new abnormal blood vessels that have developed over a wider area of the retina. The ophthalmologist may make hundreds of laser burns on the retina to stop the blood vessels from growing. The person may need two or more treatment sessions.

Laser photocoagulation is usually not painful. You may feel a slight stinging sensation or see brief flashes of light when the laser is applied to your eye.

Why is laser photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy done?

Laser photocoagulation is done to reduce the risk of vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy. It is most often used to stabilize vision and prevent future vision loss rather than to improve vision loss that has already occurred. (Sometimes focal photocoagulation for macular edema caused by nonproliferative retinopathy can help restore lost vision.)

Laser photocoagulation may be used to treat and prevent further progression of:

  • Macular edema. Focal photocoagulation is sometimes used in these cases.
  • Proliferative retinopathy. Scatter (pan-retinal) photocoagulation is used to treat proliferative retinopathy.

How is laser photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy done?

The doctor puts medicine in your eye to numb it. You are given eyedrops that widen (dilate) your pupils. You may also get medicine to help you relax. Your eyelids are held open during treatment.

Many people don't feel pain during this type of laser treatment. Some people feel mild pain or discomfort. You may feel a slight sting or see brief flashes of light when the laser is applied to your eye.

Laser photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy: When to call

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have vision changes.
  • You see new flashes of light.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • You see new or worse floaters.
  • You do not get better as expected.

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.