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Coagulation of the retina
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Laser coagulation of the retina is carried out by patients who suffer from peripheral and central retinal dystrophies, vascular lesions, and certain types of tumors. Laser retina coagulation prevents the emergence of retinal dystrophy, as well as detachment of the retina. This procedure is effective as a prophylaxis of the progression of dystrophic changes on the fundus.
Laser retinal coagulation is the only and non-alternative method of treatment for such diseases as: retinal changes, retinal degeneration of the retina, dystrophy - a snail trail, vascular eye diseases, diabetic retinopathy, central retinal vein thrombosis, angiomatosis, age-related macular degeneration, cardiovascular pathology of veins.
Laser retina coagulation is performed on an outpatient basis. During the operation, local anesthesia is used. It is easily tolerated by patients of different ages. Laser coagulation of the retina lasts approximately 15-20 minutes. After a short rest and examination of the ophthalmologist, the patient can return home.
The principle of laser coagulation treatment is based on the fact that the action of the laser leads to a sharp increase in temperature, and this leads to coagulation (clotting) of the tissue, so the operation is bloodless.
[Technique of laser retinal coagulation
- the size of the laser coagulum is 200 μm, the exposure time is 0.1-0.2 sec;
- a three-mirror lens or a pan-poundoscope is placed on the cornea under local anesthesia;
- dystrophy is limited to two rows of moderate-intensity discharge coagulants;
- after treatment, the patient is advised to avoid increased physical exertion for 7 days before adequate scarring and reliable detachment of dystrophy are established.
Possible complications of retinal laser coagulation
Serious complications due to peripheral laser coagulation are not typical and can usually be associated with the treatment of large areas of the retina.
- Maculopathy in the form of cystic edema of the macula or macular folds.
- An abruption of the choroid, which can be complicated by secondary closed-angle glaucoma as a result of direct rotation of the ciliary body.
- Exfoliation of the retina is usually resolved within 1 or 2 weeks.
- Regmatogenic retinal detachment, caused by the secondary formation of a rupture, is rare.
- Hemorrhage of the retina occurs rarely and can be suspended by pressing a contact lens on the eyeball to increase intraocular pressure.