Treatment Options for Diabetic Retinopathy

Because diabetic retinopathy is directly related to diabetes, treating the eye problem is difficult. Although treatment may be effective, further retinal damage and vision loss is still possible because of the diabetes itself.

The two main treatments for diabetic retinopathy are photocoagulation and vitrectomy.

Photocoagulation (Laser Treatment)

The goal of photocoagulation, also known as laser treatment, is to stop the leakage of blood and fluid in the retina and thus slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy and vision loss.

Photocoagulation is recommended under the following condition:

• Diabetic macular edema, a swelling that involves or threatens the center of the retina
• Severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy, especially if you have type 2 diabetes
• Proliferative diabetic retinopathy
• Neovascular glaucoma

Vitrectomy

A vitreous hemorrhage may clear up on its own. But if the hemorrhage is massive and doesn't clear, a vitrectomy may help to restore your sight and may allow the application of needed laser treatment. A vitrectomy is also used to remove scar tissue when it begins to pull the retina away from the wall of the eye.