Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is the main cause of visual impairment in diabetic patients. The management of DME is complex and often various treatment approaches are needed. At the present time, despite the enthusiasm for evaluating several new treatments for DME, including the intravitreal pharmacologic therapies (e.g., corticosteroids and anti-VEGF drugs), laser photocoagulation still remains the current standard in DME. The purpose of this review is to update our knowledge on laser photocoagulation for DME and describe the developments in laser systems. And we will also discuss the new laser techniques and review the latest results including benefits of combined therapy. In this paper, we briefly summarize the major laser therapeutics for the treatment of diabetic macular edema and allude to some future promising laser therapies.
Highlights
In 2011, an estimated 347 million people worldwide were affected by diabetes, and the number is expected to double by 2030
By applying the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) criteria to patients with visual impairment caused by Diabetic macular edema (DME), laser therapy reduced the relative risk of loss of 15 visual acuity (VA) letters by 50% compared to deferred treatment [4]
We summarize the various Journal of Ophthalmology laser therapeutic options for treating DME and discuss promising laser therapies of the future
Summary
In 2011, an estimated 347 million people worldwide were affected by diabetes, and the number is expected to double by 2030. In some cases where vitreous traction is demonstrated, the treatment of choice is to perform pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) Some such agents have recently been shown to be superior to laser therapy [7, 8]. Given that several of these newer agents are available, it can be difficult to individualize treatment options, especially when attempting to minimize cost and simplify retreatment cycles (the number of injections). These concerns, together with the absence of long-term effects on VEGF inhibition, mean that laser photocoagulation continues to be the necessary treatment for DME care. Journal of Ophthalmology laser therapeutic options for treating DME and discuss promising laser therapies of the future
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