Application of subthreshold laser therapy in retinal diseases: a review.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Laser photocoagulation has been a valuable tool in the ophthalmologist's armamentarium for decades. Conventional laser photocoagulation relies on visible retinal burns as a treatment endpoint, which is thought to result in photocoagulative necrosis of retinal tissue. Recent studies have suggested that using subthreshold (ST) laser, which does not cause detectable damage to the retina may also have therapeutic effects in a variety of retinal diseases. Areas covered: We review the proposed biological mechanisms mediating the therapeutic effects of subthreshold laser on the retina, followed by the evidence for ST laser efficacy in retinal diseases such as diabetic macular edema, central serous chorioretinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and retinal vein occlusion

SUBMITTER: Moore SM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6831099 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature