Laser Photocoagulation
Retinal laser photocoagulation is a minimally invasive procedure mostly used in treating diabetic retinopathy, to slow or stop the growth of blood vessels in the retina. This procedure can limit a part of the retina with the rupture.
During the intervention, laser photocoagulation is used to seal the retina in the zone of leaking blood vessels. Another option is to treat the zone at the periphery of the retina to slow down the progress of abnormal growth of blood vessels. This cannot restore the already weakened eyesight, but it can slow down the progression of the disorder and “preserve” the current state.
This is an outpatient procedure with topical anesthetic. Because the patient will have his pupils dilated (cycloplegia), he should be accompanied by another person. After the procedure, the eyesight can be blurry. Also, it is possible to feel mild pain lasting to one or two days. You can return to your regular activities very quickly and usually no medicaments are needed.
Laser photocoagulation brings certain risks. Since a part of the retina is destroyed, patients can experience a discrete loss of central vision, a reduction of night vision, and a lack of focus.
However, complications after this procedure are exceptionally rare compared to serious consequences that can occur if diabetic retinopathy isn’t treated with laser.
This is a non-invasive intervention and there is no risk of infection.