PRP Laser treatment

PRP (Panretinal Photocoagulation) is a type of laser treatment for the eye. It is employed to address the presence of new, abnormal blood vessels that develop at the posterior section of the eye, specifically in the retina or within the eye’s drainage system.

For which individuals is PRP laser treatment recommended?

PRP laser treatment is to inhibit the growth of the new abnormal blood vessels in the retina and shrinks as well as to contract and eliminate any existing irregular vessels. By doing so, the likelihood of bleeding into the vitreous gel within the eye or the development of neovascular glaucoma, a painful form of high eye pressure, is significantly reduced.

This form of treatment serves to mitigate the potential for intraocular bleeding and acts as a preventive measure against the onset of neovascular glaucoma. In its absence, individuals with advanced diabetes face a heightened risk of vision loss due to bleeding within the vitreous or retinal detachment. Therefore, PRP laser treatment plays a crucial role in preserving and safeguarding vision in these patients.

What potential side effects should be considered following PRP laser treatment?

There is robust scientific evidence supporting the significant reduction in the risk of vision deterioration through laser treatment. While it may decrease the peripheral (edge) field of vision, this effect may go unnoticed. However, it could potentially impact meeting the visual legal requirements for holding a driving license, particularly if the individual is a driver, he should consult his doctor regarding this matter for adequate assurance about.

The treatment may lead to reduced night vision of the individual and altered color vision in the treated eye after PRP laser. In rare cases, vision may worsen after the procedure. This can have attributed to factors such as fluid accumulation at the back of the eye (macular edema), intraocular bleeding (vitreous hemorrhage), or unintended retinal burn. Such vision deterioration may be permanent

What preparations outlined before undergoing PRP laser treatment?

• Communicate and share the information of the treatment with your partner, family members, and individuals who can offer assistance and support following the PRP laser treatment.
• It is essential that you refrain from driving on the day of the treatment. Because the use of dilating drops during the procedure in the eye may cause temporary blurriness of the vision. These drops will last your vision’s blurriness up for up to 6 hours after the treatment.
• Expect spending a minimum of 2 to 4 hours at the hospital for the procedure on the day of treatment.
• Individuals with diabetic are advised to ensure they have enough food and any necessary medications that they may need to last throughout the visit.
• Continue taking your regular medications as prescribed prior to the treatment.
• You may eat and drink as usual unless you have been advised not to do so.

These preparations are designed to help ensure a smooth and comfortable experience during the PRP laser treatment. Following these guidelines will contribute to a successful procedure and recovery process.

What is the procedure of PRP laser treatment?

• The treatment is usually conducted in the Outpatient Department of the Eye Hospital initially.
• A nurse will check and assess your vision and administer eye drops to dilate the pupil. This dilation process may lead to temporary blurring of vision, which can last for approximately 4 to 6 hours.
• The purpose of dilation is to be induced by these drops, facilitating the doctor’s ability to clearly visualize the back of your eye during the laser treatment.

This initial stage helps prepare any individual for the PRP laser treatment and ensures that the doctor has optimal visibility for the procedure.

PRP laser treatment is naturally administered over several sessions, set a few days to a few weeks apart. Prior to the treatment, a local anesthetic drop or injection may be used to ensure the comfort of the patient.

During the procedure, a specialized microscope, similar to those used in clinics, is employed to examine the eyes of the patient. Additionally, a special contact lens is utilized in combination with the laser application. The duration of the treatment varies, typically lasting between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the extent of treatment required for the specific condition of the patient.

Following the treatment, the patient may experience mild discomfort or a dull ache in the treated eye. It’s not uncommon for the vision to appear darker temporarily. So, the patient ought to rest assured, because this is a normal occurrence and should not cause concern.