Procedures: Diabetic Lasers

Diabetics are 25 times more likely to become blind than non-diabetic patients. This risk can be significantly reduced with careful evaluation and care.

Today the mainstay of treatment is laser surgery, a procedure that involves focusing a powerful beam of laser light energy onto the retina. Selective destruction or sealing of leaking areas of the damaged retina may be achieved with the laser beam. Laser treatment is often helpful in maintaining vision and preventing further vision loss. This treatment requires no incisions and may be performed in the doctor’s office.

Normal Vision

If bleeding into the vitreous gel has occurred or if scar tissue is pulling on the retina, a surgical procedure called Vitrectomy may be necessary. This procedure is usually performed after other treatments have been attempted.

Diabetics may also develop cataracts earlier and are more likely to develop glaucoma. Like most eye conditions and diseases, early diagnosis and treatment is very important. Control of blood sugar levels slows the onset and progression of this disease.

It is important for diabetics to have routine examinations from their primary care physician and to have annual eye exams to determine the eye’s health. If you would like more information on diabetic eye disease, call Pittsburgh Eye Institute at 412-466-6800 and request more information.

The same view with diabetic retinopathy.