Pan-Retinal Photocoagulation, or PRP (also called scatter laser treatment), is used to treat proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).  Diabetic retinopathy (damage to the retina) is caused by complications of diabetes, which can eventually lead to blindness.  Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is a condition in which abnormal new blood vessels may rupture and bleed inside the eye.  With this advanced stage of retinopathy, Pan-Retinol Photocoagulation is the recommended treatment.

Reduce the risk of severe vision loss by 50%
Dr. DiStefano performs Pan-Retinol Photocoagulation as an outpatient procedure.  Small burns are used to destroy the abnormal blood vessels that form in the retina.  It has been shown to reduce the risk of severe vision loss by 50%.

Before beginning the laser treatment, Dr. DiStefano dilates the pupil and applies anesthetic drops to numb the eye.  During the procedure, you may see flashes of light and experience some stinging.  Vision may remain blurry for the rest of the day and you are advised not to drive while pupils are dilated.  Pain should be minimal.

As with any procedures, there are risks, which the staff at DiStefano Eye Center will discuss with you.  Proper and vigilant treatment and monitoring of the eyes can significantly reduce the effects of proliferative retinopathy.  There is a risk for new bleeding and glaucoma, so ongoing examinations with Dr. DiStefano are highly recommended.