What it is
Panretinal photocoagulation — usually called PRP — is a laser treatment that places small spots across the peripheral (side) part of the retina. The treated areas stop demanding so much oxygen, which signals the eye to stop growing the abnormal blood vessels that cause vision loss in advanced retinal disease.
When it's used
PRP is a common treatment for:
- Proliferative diabetic retinopathy
- Ischemic retinal vein occlusion with neovascularization
- Other conditions causing abnormal new blood vessels in the retina or on the iris
In some patients, anti-VEGF injections are used instead of, or alongside, PRP. We will recommend the approach best suited to your specific findings.
What to expect
PRP is performed in the office. The eye is numbed with drops. You'll see bright flashes during the treatment, which takes 5–10 minutes; some patients describe minimal discomfort.
After the procedure
Vision may be blurry for several hours due to dilation — bring sunglasses and a driver. Most patients can return to normal activities the next day.