Evaluating laser photocoagulation for patients with diabetic macular edema

This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of laser photocoagulation for the treatment of diabetic macular edema. This study concluded that this procedure lowered the chances of vision loss and improved symptoms within 1 to 3 years.

Some patients with diabetes may develop problems with their vision due to diabetic retinopathy. This is a complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina (the back of the eye). These blood vessels can swell, leaking fluid into the macula (the center of the retina). As fluid accumulates, the macula can swell. This is called diabetic macular edema (DME). It can lead to vision loss.

Laser photocoagulation involves treating the retina with a small laser. The laser is used to seal or destroy leaking blood vessels in the macula. This can reduce the risk of further vision loss. The effectiveness and safety of laser photocoagulation for DME in patients with diabetes remain under investigation.

This study analyzed the results of 24 other studies.

Across 1295 participants, laser treatment reduced the risk of vision loss at 1 year compared to participants who did not receive treatment. At 1 year follow-up, this treatment was associated with a 58% lower risk of vision loss. This rate was 37% at 2 years, and 32% at 3 years.

In another analysis, laser treatment improved macular thickening compared to participants who did not receive treatment. At 3 years follow-up, this treatment was associated with a 55% chance of improving the thickness of the macula.

There were no differences in visual improvements between different types of lasers used in this procedure. However, in one study, the micropulse laser was associated with less scarring in the retina (13.9%) compared to standard lasers (59%). This scarring can affect a patient’s ability to see fine details.

This study concluded that laser photocoagulation lowered the chances of vision loss and improved symptoms in patients with diabetic macular edema.

This study was retrospective, meaning it looked back in time to analyze data.