Argon Laser Photocoagulation of Diabetic Retinopathy

The argon laser-slit lamp photocoagulator developed by us and our colleagues has been used in a wide variety of retinal diseases. Of the 125 patients with diabetic retinopathy treated to date, 53 have been observed at least six months. The patients are divided into four categories: patients with nonproliferative retinopathy, with neovascularization in the plane of the retina, and with neovascularization in the vitreous. Experience to date indicates argon laser photocoagulation to be effective inthese three categories. In the fourth group, patients whose neovascularization is accompanied by much glial proliferation, obliteration of blood vessels is very difficult. Hemorrhage can occur with over zealous treatment. This instrument represents an advance in quantitative photocoagulation; it must be used with great care and precision.