Retina and Laser Photocoagulation

The retina is a light-sensitive neural tissue lining the inner back wall of the eye. Light entering the eye is converted into nerve impulses within the retina and transmitted through the optic nerve to the visual centers of the brain, where images are formed.

Damage to the retina can result in severe visual impairment and may even lead to complete blindness.

One of the most important — and often the only effective — treatment methods for retinal diseases is retinal laser photocoagulation. This procedure involves applying laser burns to specific retinal areas for therapeutic purposes.

Among the conditions treated with laser photocoagulation is diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes mellitus, which manifests in two forms:

Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)

This form is characterized by pathological changes in the retinal blood vessels. Leakage of blood and plasma through damaged vessel walls causes retinal hemorrhages and edema.

Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)

In this advanced stage, retinal blood vessels become occluded, leading to the growth of abnormal new blood vessels — known as neovascularization. These fragile vessels can easily rupture, causing bleeding into the vitreous body and significant vision loss. Fibrovascular membrane formation on the retinal surface may also occur, potentially leading to tractional retinal detachment and, in severe cases, complete blindness.

In non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, laser treatment is directed at the leaking retinal areas. In proliferative diabetic retinopathy, laser burns are applied to the peripheral retina — a procedure known as panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) — to suppress abnormal vessel growth and prevent associated complications.

Retinal laser photocoagulation is also used in certain forms of peripheral retinal degeneration, as well as retinal tears and holes that increase the risk of retinal detachment. Laser treatment is applied around these lesions and, in selected cases, around the entire retinal periphery (360 degrees) to reinforce retinal attachment and stabilization.

Additionally, retinal laser photocoagulation is used in retinal vascular occlusions and various proliferative retinal disorders.

At our clinic, laser photocoagulation is performed using the Nidek GYC-500, a pattern laser photocoagulator equipped with 22 preset treatment patterns. The system allows repositioning of patterns and adjustment of spacing between coagulation spots.

The device provides fast and efficient treatment, reduces the number of required sessions, minimizes discomfort, and offers a more tissue-sparing approach, making it a highly effective and patient-friendly technology.