What is laser photocoagulation of neovascular membranes?
The wet form of macular degeneration, as well as a number of less common conditions, can cause vision decline as a result of abnormal blood vessels (known as neovascular membranes) that grow under the retina near the center of the macula. Laser photocoagulation (commonly referred to as “hot” laser) is an older treatment for this condition, but it can still be very beneficial if the abnormal blood vessels are outside the center of vision. For this type of laser treatment, fluorescein angiography and/or ICG angiography are first performed to pinpoint the location of the abnormal blood vessels (that is, the neovascular membrane). Your doctor will use the results of these studies as a map to target the abnormal blood vessels. As long as the abnormal blood vessels are not directly under the center of the macula, the “hot” laser can be used to burn and destroy the blood vessels, forming a scar and stopping the leakage.
What to expect
Before your procedure, the doctor will perform a dilated retina examination. Then, you will be seated comfortably in the procedure room and anesthetic eye drops will be placed in your eye. The laser will be performed with you sitting upright at the slitlamp. A typical laser treatment is performed in 5 to 10 minutes and the experience is similar to a dilated eye examination. You will notice bright lights and typically feel nothing or a mild stinging sensation. Immediately after the laser, your vision out of the treated eye will be dim and hazy for about 5 minutes. Then it will return to your pre-treatment level of vision. You will not need to wear a patch after the laser. If you experience a slight headache after your procedure, that can be normal and you may take Tylenol for it.
Your doctor will discuss all of the above with you and review additional information and precautions before and after your treatment. Our goal is to have all of your questions answered, so please feel free to ask our doctors and staff about any questions or concerns you may have.
