Improving delivery of laser pan retinal photocoagulation in treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the benefits of introducing a laser room poster in improving delivery of laser pan retinal photocoagulation (PRP) in treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).Design/methodology/approachAn audit was carried out to describe the practice prior to introducing laser room poster. A reaudit was conducted after its introduction to evaluate if the practice had improved.FindingsThere was a 20 per cent increase (92 per cent in reaudit versus 72 per cent in audit) in total number of laser burns between 1,000‐2,500 burns during first session. In a completed PRP, an increase of 23 per cent was recorded (45 per cent versus 22 per cent) in total number of laser burns between 3,000‐6,000 burns. Retinal area ablated less than recommended by ETDRS fell by 21 per cent (18 versus 39). Not surprisingly the percentage of patients requiring re‐treatment after completed PRP fell from 30 per cent to 21 per cent, indicating an overall improvement in PRP treatment results.Originality/valueFuture strategies for improving clinical effectiveness can be based on experience gained from this project. Laser room poster can be an important tool in ophthalmology departments in the management of PDR.