PRP (Pan Retina Photocoagulation) is a laser treatment applied to the retina surface to create scars and stop the growth of new blood vessels. It is one of the treatment options for retinal blood vessel rupture or blockage, such as in diabetic patients with diabetic retinopathy complications.
Purpose of PRP
- To treat retinal tears (commonly found in people with myopia)
- To treat retinal blood vessel rupture/blockage/new vessel growth (diseases caused by blood vessel rupture or blockage, originating from hypertension, diabetes, or immune system disorders such as SLE)
(In cases where there is risk or detected lesions, patients need laser treatment)
If untreated, there is a risk of severe vision loss or blindness
- In cases of retinal tears, if untreated, the retina may tear into a large hole or vitreous fluid may seep into the retina through the tear, causing retinal detachment severe enough to cause vision loss.
- In cases of new blood vessel rupture or blockage, if untreated, it may cause intraocular bleeding (blood vessel rupture) or severe glaucoma (blood vessel blockage), leading to vision loss.
How PRP is performed
- Apply pupil-dilating drops for about 30-60 minutes to prepare the pupil before laser treatment.
- Apply anesthetic drops.
- Sit in front of the laser machine, place the chin on the chin rest, and the doctor places a lens on the cornea (the patient keeps the eye wide open and steady).
- The doctor directs the laser light through the lens, taking about 10-20 minutes depending on the severity of the disease (some patients may feel slight pain depending on the retinal surface and the specific disease).
Patient care instructions
Before treatment
- No need to stop medications that increase bleeding risk such as blood thinners, NSAIDs, supplements containing Omega-3, vitamin E, or herbal medicines (ginseng, reishi mushroom).
- Avoid driving as vision will be blurry after treatment (due to pupil dilation). It is recommended to have a companion for safe travel home.
After treatment
- Avoid sports or activities that may cause trauma or impact to the eyes for 1 month.
- Follow up with the doctor as scheduled to closely monitor the condition after laser treatment (to prevent new lesions from the underlying disease).
- Resume normal daily activities, can get the eyes wet, and eat normally.
Possible side effects
- Mild eye ache or throbbing pain (rarely occurs).
- Blurred vision similar to before laser treatment or improvement after several months, depending on the individual’s disease. Treatment requires time and multiple sessions (at least to prevent permanent vision loss and reduce the risk of severe glaucoma).
