Single versus multiple treatment sessions of argon laser panretinal photocoagulation for proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Abstract

A prospective, randomized study was performed to demonstrate whether there was a difference in the beneficial or adverse effects of argon laser photocoagulation for proliferative diabetic retinopathy depending on whether treatment was administered in a single session as compared with multiple sessions spaced over time. Results show no major differences between groups in the effect of treatment on visual acuity, visual field scores, or retinopathy risk factors. Exudative retinal detachment, choroidal detachment, and angle closure occurred more commonly in single session treatment group eyes, but these effects were transient, and no long-term difference between treatment groups was found.