Diabetic Retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in patients 20-74 years of age. There are two forms; non-proliferative and proliferative. Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy occurs when blood vessels leak and fluid accumulates in the retina. When the leakage is severe, laser surgery can be used to reduce or eliminate the associated retinal swelling. Vision may not usually improve with the laser treatment, but if performed early enough, it may stop further vision loss. Newer treatment may include an injection of AVASTIN or LUCENTIS™.

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy results from the collapse or closure of blood vessels. The retina becomes sick where the blood vessels have closed and releases stimulants for the growth or “proliferation” of new blood vessels. These new vessels are fragile and can easily bleed causing hemorrhage in the eye and blindness. Laser surgery can drastically reduce the risk of severe vision loss in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy. When severe hemorrhage or scar tissue develops the microsurgical procedure termed vitrectomy may be required to restore vision.

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