Why do people need laser treatment to the retina?
There are three main types of retinal laser treatment:
- Panretinal laser photocoagulation (PRP)
- Macular laser treatment
- Laser retinopexy
PRP laser is used to prevent or cause regression of abnormal new blood vessels in diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion.

Macular laser is used to treat macular oedema (swelling), also in diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion.
Laser retinopexy is used to seal off a retinal tear (break) in order to prevent progression to retinal detachment.