Every year, the diagnostic capabilities of the devices are expanding, allowing many eye diseases to be detected in their early stages and a better understanding of anatomical and biochemical interactions in tissues. Alongside diagnosis, treatment methods are also diversifying.
A promising direction in laser therapy of retinal disorders is Micropuls laser therapy. The method is based on the action of a beam of light for an extremely short period of time and at a power of no more than 15% of that needed to achieve the coagulation effect for each individual eye. The laser surgeon always adjusts the parameters individually, as each eye is unique.
Pathological conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular edema in post-occlusive cases, central serous choroidopathy and certain types of neovascularization, have at the basis of their pathogenesis changes in the retinal pigment epithelium and choroidal capillaries. The retinal pigment epithelium functions not only as a barrier between the choroid and the retina, but also as an essential structure for feeding photoreceptors and removing metabolic products.
Treating pathologic processes in the central zone is particularly responsible, as this is the most functionally important as well as the most vulnerable zone. Any method of coagulation in the central area can lead to irreversible loss of functional elements, destruction of photoreceptors and defects in the visual field.
The method consists in using laser radiation in the yellow spectrum, with a wavelength of 577 nm, in micropulse mode, which is the most selective for retinal pigment epithelium cells and is absorbed to a large extent by melanin. It is also important that there is no significant functional retinal area damage due to the absence of absorption of radiation in this spectrum by the xanthophyll pigment of the macular area.
The sub-threshold effect of the micropulse power leads to stimulation of pigment epithelium cell organelles and choroidal capillaries, triggering intracellular regeneration processes, manifested by enhanced pump function of pigment epithelium cells, increased number of mitochondria and pigment granules. This reduces edema and closes filter points.
Laser treatment requires no special preparation, is performed on an outpatient basis, painless and fast, under local anesthesia with drops. The patient is in a seated position, a special contact lens is placed on the eyeball and flashes of light are visible. The procedure takes a few minutes. The same day, the patient can return to normal activities.
The effect of this therapy, depending on the severity of the disease, can last from several weeks to several months. Given the safety and effectiveness of the method, it can be repeated every month if necessary.
