Laser Treatment for Diabetes
Introduction
As you know, diabetes mellitus is a potentially blinding disease. Depending on the status of the retina, examination intervals may be anywhere from three months to one year. Once it has been determined that you have diabetic retinopathy, laser treatment may be recommended.
Explanation
There are basically two types of lasers that are performed, depending on the stage of disease of the retina (which is like the film of a camera). Both require dilation of the treated eye.
Focal Laser
If you have diabetic changes in the macula (which is the part of the eye responsible for fine focus), a focal laser will be done. This procedure requires placement of an anesthetic drop followed by placement of a special contact lens to allow a maximum magnified view of the macula. The number of laser applications will be anywhere from 15 to 150, and is a totally painless procedure lasting approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Panrentinal Laser
If you have a more advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy, you may require panretinal photocoagulation. The treatment is directed toward the outer portions of the retina. Some patients occasionally state that they do feel the laser applications. If there is any discomfort, the laser can be adjusted to minimize this problem. This laser takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Conclusion
Because of the nature of diabetes, it is likely that multiple treatment sessions will be necessary in order to treat the changes that have taken place in the retina.
I hope this short description will reduce some of the anxieties that you may have about the various types of lasers used for diabetes. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask us at the time of your visit, or we can be reached by phone at any time during office hours.