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Review
. 2021 Sep 6;21(9):35.
doi: 10.1007/s11892-021-01403-6.

Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Macular Edema

Lesley A Everett  1 , Yannis M Paulus  2
Affiliations
Review

Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Macular Edema

Lesley A Everett et al. Curr Diab Rep. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review highlights indications and evidence on laser therapy in the management of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. Particular focus is placed upon the benefits and limitations of conventional laser photocoagulation versus more modern laser photocoagulation techniques, as well as the role of laser photocoagulation in treatment of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema with the frequent utilization of pharmacologic, including anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), therapy.

Recent findings: Laser photocoagulation remains the gold-standard therapy for the effective, definitive treatment of PDR, and also is highly effective in the management of DME. However, numerous recent studies have demonstrated the clinical efficacy and improved functional and anatomic outcomes of combination therapy with pharmacologic treatment. Continuing innovations in laser technology and improved understanding of laser-retinal interactions and pathophysiology demonstrate that laser therapy will continue to play a critical role in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema for many years to come.

Keywords: Diabetic macular edema; Diabetic retinopathy; Focal laser photocoagulation; Panretinal photocoagulation; Retinal laser therapy; Selective retinal therapy.

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Conflict of interest statement

Lesley Everett declares no conflict of interest. Yannis Paulus has patents through the University of Michigan, equity and patents licenses to PhotoSonoX LLC, and serves as a consultant on a Department of Defense grant with Hedgefog Research Inc evaluating retinal photocoagulation injuries of the retina.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Fundus photograph comparing conventional laser (lower left) and patterned scanning laser (upper right), demonstrating more uniformly spaced, small, and less intense spots provided by the pattern scanning laser. Reprinted with permission from Paulus, Y. M., Palanker, D., & Blumenkranz, M. S. (2010). Short-pulse laser treatment: redefining retinal therapy. Retinal Physician, 7(1), 54–56
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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