Photocoagulation of choroidal neovascular membranes with a diode laser.

Abstract

Nine eyes with parafoveal choroidal neovascular membranes due to age-related macular degeneration or angioid streaks were treated with a diode laser and were followed up. to 40 weeks (mean 26 weeks). Angiographically proved closure of the membrane was achieved in seven eyes. Four lesions needed a second treatment for growth of subretinal neovascular tissue. Post-treatment visual acuity ranged from 6/9 to 6/60. Two eyes developed subfoveal membranes resulting in poor visual acuity. The morphology of the diode laser lesions differed from that of the argon green laser and was more similar to that of the krypton laser, producing a 'black hole' on the fluorescein positive print. In one particular eye fluorescein angiography revealed subfoveal choroidal non-perfusion next to the site of the diode lesion suggesting choroidal vascular closure. (BrJ Ophthalmol 1993; 77: 218-221)

Screening for age-related macular degeneration using nonstereo digital fundus photographs

“…With advancement in laser techniques and pharmacological adjuncts, it is now possible to delay or even halt the progression of the disease in certain cases. [6][7][8][9][10][11][12] The most popular among these is photodynamic therapy (PDT), which utilises the dye verteporfin to sensitise the retinal cells to the effect of laser energy. The neovascular membrane is then obliterated with much lower energy levels than would otherwise be required.…”

“…The most effective treatment techniques include photodynamic therapy (PDT) [6][7][8][9] and transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) [10][11][12] that use laser to ablate the neovascular membrane. However, they have a narrow window of opportunity to treat for maximum therapeutic benefit.…”

Diode laser-induced thermal damage evaluation on the retina with a liposome dye system

“…Evidence of their usefulness for the treatment of choroidal conditions has been demonstrated by studies showing the efficacy of diode laser photocoagulation in the treatment of choroidal neovascular membranes [1]. The efficacy of diode laser has also been demonstrated for the treatment of diabetic macular edema [2].…”

Quantitative fluorescein angiography following diode laser retinal photocoagulation

“…Evidence of their usefulness for the treatment of choroidal conditions has been demonstrated by studies showing the efficacy of diode laser photocoagulation in the treatment of choroidal neovascular membranes or diabetic macular edema [1,2]. However some doubts have been raised as to the suitability of the infrared lasers for retinal photocoagulation because of difficulties for the control of the intensity of the retinal burn [3].…”