Laser photocoagulation of the retina is a medical procedure that uses a high-energy laser to apply controlled heat spots to the retina, the light-sensitive tissue layer located at the back of the eye responsible for vision. This technique is used to treat various eye conditions that affect the retina, such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears or detachments, and macular edema.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, typically in the ophthalmologist’s office. The patient is positioned in front of a laser machine while the specialist directs a high-intensity beam of light toward the retina. The laser light is absorbed by the retinal tissues, generating heat and creating small, controlled coagulation spots.
What are the objectives of laser photocoagulation?
The coagulation spots created by the laser can have several therapeutic objectives:
- Seal abnormal blood vessels: In proliferative diabetic retinopathy, fragile new blood vessels prone to bleeding are formed. Photocoagulation helps prevent or stop these hemorrhages.
- Create tissue adhesions: In cases of retinal tears or detachments, the ruptures are sealed to prevent the retina from detaching.
- Reduce macular edema: Macular edema is the accumulation of fluid in the central area of the retina that affects vision. The laser is used to “seal” leaking blood vessels or damaged areas of the retina to reduce inflammation.
