Lasers has many applications in the treatment of retinal disorders. In simplest terms the laser cauterizes the tissue onto which it shines. Most laser procedures are performed in-office under topical anesthesia. The laser is applied in the treatment of many conditions including: retinal tears, wet AMD, Diabetic macular edema, Proliferative diabetic retinopathy, Retinal vein occlusions, Retinopathy of prematurity, and other diseases which cause abnormal blood vessel growth within the eye.
Usually a special lens is placed on the eye to help focus the laser to the desired tretment area. Depending on the situation the treatment may be performed in one or several sessions. Occasionally the patient may experience discomfort during the treatment but this rarely continues once the treatment is completed.