Green laser photocoagulation

Green laser treatment, also known as photocoagulation, is a highly effective and commonly used technique in ophthalmology for treating a variety of eye conditions, particularly those related to the retina. The green laser, typically operating at a wavelength of 532 nm, is absorbed selectively by the melanin in the retinal pigment epithelium and by hemoglobin in the blood vessels. This allows for precision treatment with minimal damage to surrounding tissues.

What conditions can green laser treat?

Green laser therapy is often employed to manage the following conditions:

1. Diabetic Retinopathy :

Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. In cases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, abnormal blood vessels grow on the retina, which can leak and cause vision problems. The green laser is used to seal off these abnormal vessels, reducing the risk of bleeding and further vision loss.

2. Macular Edema :

Macular edema is the swelling of the central part of the retina (macula) due to fluid leakage from damaged blood vessels. The green laser can target these leaking vessels, sealing them to prevent further fluid accumulation and preserving vision.

3. Retinal Tears or Detachment :

In cases of retinal tears, a green laser can be applied to create a barrier of scar tissue, preventing the tear from progressing to a full retinal detachment, which can lead to permanent vision loss. For small detachments, green laser treatment can sometimes reattach the retina by forming a scar that holds it in place.

4. Central Serous Retinopathy (CSR) :

CSR is a condition in which fluid builds up under the retina, often causing distortion of vision. The green laser is used to seal the leakage point, allowing the fluid to dissipate and the retina to settle back in place.

5. Glaucoma :

In some forms of glaucoma, particularly open-angle glaucoma, green laser treatment can be used to create small openings in the trabecular meshwork of the eye, improving the outflow of fluid and reducing intraocular pressure.

How Does Green Laser Therapy Work?

The green laser works by emitting a highly focused beam of light that generates heat when absorbed by specific tissues in the eye. This heat causes coagulation or sealing of blood vessels, effectively controlling bleeding, leakage, or abnormal tissue growth. Here is a step-by-step outline of how the treatment is typically performed:

1. Pre-Treatment Examination :

We perform a comprehensive eye exam, often including optical coherence tomography (OCT), to identify the areas that need treatment.

2. Anesthesia :

Green laser treatment is performed with topical anesthesia (eye drops) to numb the surface of the eye, ensuring that the patient experiences minimal discomfort.

3. Laser Application :

The laser is directed precisely to the target areas in the retina or other eye structures. The procedure usually takes just a few minutes, depending on the size and number of areas requiring treatment.

4. Post-Treatment Care :

After the procedure, patients go home the same day. Temporary blurry vision or mild discomfort is common, but these symptoms typically resolve within a day or two. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and the effectiveness of the treatment.