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Focal/grid laser for DME has localized effect on macular vessel diameter
Focal/grid laser photocoagulation for diabetic macular edema significantly narrowed macular arterioles and venules but had an insignificant effect on central retinal vessels around the optic disc, according to a study.
The study included 69 eyes of 46 patients who underwent focal/grid laser photocoagulation for DME. Median patient age was 60 years, and overall duration of diabetes was 13 years. Matched untreated eyes served as controls.
Investigators obtained retinal photographs 6 months before and 2 months and 12 months after laser treatment. They measured the diameters of retinal vessels around the macula and optic disc before and after treatment.
Diameter of macular arterioles decreased significantly, from 73.5 µm to 72 µm (P = .04). Diameter of macular venules also decreased, from 63.5 µm to 62.4 µm (P = .02). However, there was no difference in central retinal vessel caliber around the optic disc before or after laser treatment.
Retinal vascular caliber did not change in control eyes.
Disclosure: The study authors have no relevant financial disclosures.