Binocular Indirect Panretinal Laser Photocoagulation for the Treatment of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of indirect laser photocoagulation in eyes with severe preproliferative and proliferative diabetic retinopathy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospectively, 209 eyes were evaluated regarding the efficacy of indirect laser photocoagulation in eyes with no previous laser treatment, with previous laser treatment, and undergoing pars plana vitrectomy with indirect laser photocoagulation. Visual acuity and progression of retinopathy were documented. RESULTS: The no previous laser treatment group received a mean of 1,465 laser spots in an average of 1.3 sessions, with 80.8% of eyes having stable or improved vision. The previous laser treatment group received a mean of 1,149 laser spots in an average of 1.2 sessions, with 83% of eyes having stable or improved vision. The pars plana vitrectomy group received a mean of 1,039 laser spots in an average of 1.1 sessions, with improvement or stabilization of vision in 89.6% of eyes. CONCLUSIONS: Indirect panretinal photocoagulation should be considered for patients with diabetes when comfort, handicaps, and progression of severe retinopathy are a concern.