Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) is a laser treatment used for certain retinal diseases that cause abnormal new blood vessel growth, most commonly proliferative diabetic retinopathy. It is done when the retina is not getting enough oxygen and responds by growing fragile, leaky blood vessels that can bleed or cause vision loss. The goal of PRP is to reduce the drive for these abnormal vessels to grow, thereby lowering the risk of severe vision loss from bleeding, retinal detachment, or glaucoma.

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How PRP works is by applying hundreds to thousands of small laser spots to the peripheral (side) retina, while usually sparing the central vision area (the macula). These laser burns reduce the retina’s oxygen demand, which signals the abnormal blood vessels to shrink or stop growing. The procedure is typically done in the office with topical anesthesia, may require more than one session, and can cause some temporary discomfort and reduced night or peripheral vision, but it has a strong track record of preserving long-term vision in high-risk patients.

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The Process