Application of laser therapy in the treatment of retinal diseases

Introduction

Retinal diseases pose a serious threat to visual health. Their effects can even lead to vision loss, so effective and safe treatment of these conditions is crucial. One of the modern therapeutic methods used for retinal diseases is laser therapy. In this article, we will discuss the use of this method and the benefits it brings to patients.

What is laser therapy?

Laser therapy is a treatment method used in ophthalmology that uses a laser light beam to precisely act on the tissues of the eye. The process is non-invasive, painless and perfectly tolerated by patients. The laser used in retinal therapy works on the principle of photocoagulation, i.e. the fusing and sealing of various structures of the eye.

Application of laser therapy in the treatment of retinopathy

Laser therapy has found application in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy, one of the most common diseases of the retina. Diabetic retinopathy results from damage to blood vessels in the retina. High-intensity lasers are used to close so-called petechiae and microaneurysms in these vessels, which cause bleeding and damage to the retina. Laser therapy can also be used for post-traumatic retinopathy associated with retinal detachment.

Treating cataracts with laser therapy

Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions, involving clouding of the lens of the eye. Although the most common treatment for cataracts is surgical removal of the cloudy lens, laser therapy can be used if the patient is preoperatively prepared. Laser therapy in this case helps strengthen the lens and reduces the risk of postoperative complications such as swelling or inflammation. After cataract removal, laser therapy can also help the eye heal.

Glaucoma treatment with laser therapy

Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes damage to the optic nerve and leads to vision loss. Laser therapy is used to treat glaucoma at different stages of the disease. For primary closed-angle glaucoma, low-intensity laser therapy is used to open the outflow of fluid inside the eye, which normalizes intraocular pressure. In contrast, for primary open-angle glaucoma, the focus is on removing tissue that blocks outflow pathways, which greatly improves fluid drainage and reduces eye pressure.

Summary

Laser therapy is a modern and effective method of treating retinal diseases. Its use for diabetic retinopathy, cataracts and glaucoma brings significant benefits to patients. The method is safe, non-invasive and well tolerated by patients. Thanks to the precise action of the laser on the tissues of the eye, it is possible to halt the progression of the disease and preserve vision. Laser therapy is therefore an important tool in the fight against retinal diseases and should be made available to as many patients as possible.