Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment

In its earliest stages, diabetic retinopathy is often best treated with careful management of diabetes to stop or slow the progression. If diabetic retinopathy advances or becomes “proliferative,” then prompt treatment is necessary.

Photocoagulation

Also known as focal laser treatment, this procedure can help to stop or at least decelerate the seeping of blood into the eye. The eye doctor identifies the leaky blood vessels and seals them with the laser to great effect.

Pan-retinal photocoagulation is a fellow laser treatment. The objective of this procedure is to use laser energy to prevent the growth of new vessels. Fortunately, these treatments are not painful beyond a momentary and slight burning sensation.

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitors

This medication is injected directly into the vitreous to relive fluid buildup and halt the generation of new blood vessels. VEGF inhibitors have been found to stabilize vision in about 90% of patients. Currently, three types of anti-VEGF drugs are available — Lucentis, Eylea and Avastin — all of which have been proven safe and effective. Periodic injections are necessary for long-lasting results.

Vitrectomy

Vitrectomy is a surgery that drains the vitreous (or clear liquid) from the eye so that the doctor has easy access to remove scar tissue and leaked blood that come about as a result of diabetic retinopathy. It is then safe to replace with a synthetic fluid.