The purpose of PPR is to treat the formation of abnormal new blood vessels. These abnormal blood vessels initially cause no symptoms. As they grow, if left untreated, they eventually can cause bleeding inside the eye, and subsequent vision loss. They may also cause glaucoma, sometimes requiring glaucoma surgery.
PRP has been demonstrated to decrease the risk of severe vision loss as a result of proliferative retinopathy (new blood vessel growth) by 50% in diabetic retinopathy. PRP is typically performed in 1-3 sessions. The alternative to PRP is to undergo treatment with intravitreal injections periodically. Patients who undergo treatment with intravitreal injections require more frequent treatment and monitoring. The average patient requires 19 injections over a 5 year period of time.
Delaying treatment for weeks to months will often lead to irreversible vision loss.
PRP is performed in the office under topical anesthesia. The procedure is usually performed with patient in reclined position and with the doctor wearing a laser indirect ophthalmoscope (headset with a laser attached to it). The patient will be asked to look in a particular direction. The physician will apply laser spots to the desired areas of the retina. Patients will notice bright flashes of light and a mild pain or burning sensation associated with laser treatment. The procedure may take anywhere from 5-20 minutes, and may need to be repeated 1-2 additional times.
Patients may use tylenol prior to the procedure, but this is not required.
The vision will be dark followed by different colors (purple, pink) for a few minutes after the procedure, but thereafter, the central vision should return near normal. There may be a slight blurriness, which typically resolves after few minutes. The eye may be sore for approximately 1-2 days. Tylenol or ibuprofen may help with any discomfort. Artificial tears may be useful for any irritation of the front of the eye. Sensitivity to light is common, and it may be helpful to use sunglasses when outside.