LASER

LASER stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. It is a high energy beam of light which is used to treat the eyes in various ways. LASERs used in the OPD (Out-patient department) are mainly used for the management of retinal and anterior segment conditions.

Retinal LASER:

These are done usually to the swelling in the central part of the retina (Macular oedema), for areas of ischaemia in retina especially when abnormal new vessels are formed or to weak areas in retina (holes, tears).

Procedeure and Preparation:

The eyes will need to be dilated prior to the treatment. LASER can be delivered either by indirect ophthalmoscope (LIO) or by slit lamp. LIO is usually preferred if the area to be treated is in the far periphery or when the media is very hazy due to cataract or vitreous haemorrhage. A contact lens needs to be applied on the eye before slit lamp delivery of LASER. Hence, anaesthetic drops are applied before commencing slit lamp delivery of LASER. The procedure usually lasts for about 5-15 minutes.

Intravitreal Injections:

An intravitreal injection is a shot of medicine into the eye. The inside of the eye is filled with a jelly-like fluid (vitreous). During this procedure, your health care provider injects medicine into the vitreous, near the retina at the back of the eye.