Effect of pattern scanning laser on macular thickness in diabetic retinopathy

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the effect of pattern scanning laser (PASCAL) panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) on central macular thickness (CMT) and visual acuity (VA) in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Methods: This retrospective non-randomized comparative case series included 262 eyes (163 with macular edema) of 177 patients with PDR. Treatment was PRP alone (137), PRP\u2009+\u2009anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (69), PRP\u2009+\u2009focal laser (28), or all three (89). CMT and central macular volume 3 and 6 mm from fovea were analyzed before and 1, 3, and 6 months after PRP. Spot number was plotted against CMT, and linear regression analysis was performed. Results: For each treatment group and time point, there was a non-significant relationship between spot number and CMT. In eyes receiving all three treatment modalities, a significant negative relationship was found between spot number and 3-mm volume at 6 months (p\u2009=\u20090.04) and 6-mm volume at 1 month (p\u2009=\u20090.002) and 6 months (p\u2009=\u20090.011). There was no significant change in VA in any treatment group at the 6-month time point. Conclusion: PASCAL PRP\u2009±\u2009focal laser or anti-VEGF was not associated with increased development of macular edema or change in VA. PASCAL PRP with focal laser and anti-VEGF may result in a decrease in macular edema.