Krypton red laser photocoagulation for branch retinal vein occlusion

Abstract

Krypton red (647 nm) laser photocoagulation may offer distinct advantages in the treatment of branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), particularly in eyes with extensive intraretinal hemorrhage or in the presence of media opacities such as vitreous hemorrhage or cataract. Twenty-three eyes were followed for a minimum of 6 months (range, 6-38). Of 19 eyes treated for macular edema, 17 (89%) had complete resolution of their edema, one (5%) had reduction of its edema, and one (5%) was unchanged. Of five eyes treated for retinal neovascularization of the disc or retina, all eyes had complete elimination of neovascularization. The authors were unable to demonstrate any statistical correlation between final visual acuity and the following factors: duration of symptoms, cystoid macular edema (CME), degree of paramacular nonperfusion, and contiguous intraretinal hemorrhage extending into the foveal avascular zone (FAZ).