[Indications, technics and results of argon laser photocoagulation of macular subretinal neovascularization]

Abstract

New vessels in senile macular degeneration threaten central vision. To evaluate the effects of treatment a randomized prospective trial was undertaken between 1977 and 1981. This trial concerned destruction of subretinal new vessels by argon laser photocoagulation. The indications of photocoagulation depended on the location of new vessels in relation to the center of the fovea. New vessels amenable to this treatment were those that were clearly visible on angiography and located farther than 100 microns from the foveola. 60 patients were divided into 3 groups according to the distance of the new vessels from the fovea: 100-200 microns away; 200-400 microns away; and greater than 400 microns away from the center of the fovea. In each group patients were randomly assigned to treatment or no treatment. After at least one year follow-up, argon laser showed a statistically significant effect (p less of 0,01; Kolmogorow-Smirnov test) on the stabilization or the amelioration of visual acuity compared with the non treated group. There was no statistical difference in the 3 groups of new vessel location. In cases of failure, no differences in final visual acuity existed between the treated and the non-treated group.