A laser is a concentrated beam of light that can be directed and positioned in many ways. Because of the transparent nature of the eye, lasers have become a useful tool in the practice of ophthalmology. With the help of ophthalmic equipment and various lenses, laser beams can be focused on the retina for non-invasive surgical treatment. The laser beam is used to elicit a very small amount of damage to the retina which will obtain the desired result. In this way, lasers can be used to seal retinal tears, close leaking blood vessels or to break down abnormal tissue or blood vessels.
Focal Laser Photocoagulation
Focal laser phoocoagulation is used when your physician would like to target a specific abnormal blood vessel or a specific piece of tissue. The laser in this instance is highly focused in a small area so as not to damage the surrounding tissue. A small number of laser spots are used to seal off the blood vessels or area.
Pan-retinal Photocoagulation
Pan-retinal photocoagulation is used when abnormal new blood vessel growth is found over a large area of the retina. The laser is then scattered into many points (often times over 100 laser spots) in order to cover a large area. The laser burns seal off the new leaky blood vessels which prevents their further growth.
Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy is used to treat abnormal blood vessel growth by using a photosensitive dye in conjunction with laser treatment. The photosensitive dye is injected into the patient's arm where it is incorporated into the general circulation and travels to the eye. The abnormal blood vessels are then perfused with the dye and over several minutes, the dye will selectively localize to the areas of abnormal blood vessel growth. A nonthermal (cold) laser is then directed into the eye for approximately 90 seconds. The laser activates the dye into an excited state where it produces an active form of oxygen which causes the cells lining the abnormal blood vessels to commit suicide or to die.
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