Abstract
Retinal laser photocoagulation is a proven, effective treatment for various retinal disorders, including diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, and sickle cell retinopathy. To minimize iatrogenic retinal damage while maintaining therapeutic effects, retinal laser technology has evolved significantly since its introduction in ophthalmology more than half a century ago. These innovations have included both optimizations of laser parameters in addition to the development of novel laser delivery systems. This review summarizes recent innovations in retinal laser technology, including subthreshold micropulse laser, selective retinal therapy and nanosecond laser, innovative modes of laser delivery including pattern scanning laser, endpoint management, navigated laser, and newly described photo-mediated ultrasound therapy.
Highlights
Lasers are designed to produce a monochromatic, highly directional light beam with photons in phase and at the same frequency
This review summarizes recent innovations in retinal laser technology, including subthreshold micropulse laser, selective retinal therapy and nanosecond laser, innovative modes of laser delivery including pattern scanning laser, endpoint management, navigated laser, and newly described photo-mediated ultrasound therapy
Lasers have been used to treat various retinal conditions, including proliferative diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, central serous chorioretinopathy, central and branch retinal vein occlusions, sickle cell retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration, since it was first described over 55 years ago [1]
Summary
Lasers are designed to produce a monochromatic, highly directional light beam with photons in phase and at the same frequency. Conventional retinal photocoagulation is typically performed with a 514-nm or 532-nm continuous wave (cw) laser using pulse durations from 100 to 200 milliseconds (ms), spot sizes from 60 to 500 micrometers, and powers from 100 to 750 milliwatts (mW). It produces detectable gray-white lesions in the retina as a desired therapeutic endpoint of treatment due to the thermal coagulation necrosis. These thermal effects are valuable for treating retinal diseases and carrying significant side effects, such as permanent retinal scarring and decreased peripheral, color, and night vision [4]. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent novel laser technologies for the treatment of retinal diseases
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