Laser

What is a Laser?
A laser is an instrument that produces a pure, high-intensity beam of light energy. The laser light can be focused onto the retina, selectively treating the desired area while leaving the surrounding tissues untouched. The absorbed energy creates a microscopic spot to destroy lesions or weld tissues together.

Which retinal conditions require laser treatment?
Lasers are commonly used to treat the following eye conditions:

1. Diabetic retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a progressive damage to the tiny retinal blood vessels caused by complications of long-standing diabetes, which if not treated at an appropriate stage can eventually lead to complete loss of vision.DR can be mainly of two types - Non proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR) (mild, moderate, severe) and Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). In advanced form of the disease (PDR) new abnormal blood vessels grow on retinal surface in response to the loss of blood supply caused by closure of normal blood vessels which can bleed anytime (vitreous haemorrhage) or cause pull on the retina (tractional retinal detachment) leading to sudden loss of vision. In severe NPDR and PDR, laser treatment is applied to peripheral retina (PRP) to decrease the risk of complete vision loss. Laser does not improve sight.

2. Retinal vein occlusion (RVO)
RVO occurs when there is a blockage in the retinal vein (which drains blood away from the retina) causing the walls of the vein to leak blood (haemorrhage) and fluid into the retina. Fluid accumulation under the macula causes sudden painless blurring of vision. If RVO is not treated, it can sometimes lead to complete loss of vision.RVO can be mainly of two types – Branch retinal Vein occlusion (BRVO) and Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Laser treatment is applied to whole peripheral retina (PRP in ischemic CRVO) or affected retinal area in BRVO to decrease the risk of further complications. Laser does not improve sight.

3. Retinal breaks and detachment.
Retinal tears or holes can occur as part of an aging phenomenon, or following cataract surgery or eye injury. Laser treatment around retinal tears or holes is often able to seal the retina to the underlying eye wall. This can prevent or limit retinal detachment.

4. Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).
CSC is collection of fluid under the central portion of the retina. Although the vast majority of cases will resolve spontaneously, laser photocoagulation may sometimes be advised to seal the leak if CSC is long standing.