12th Vitreoretinal Symposium Frankfurt – Marburg 2009

Scientific programm: Abstract

5th scientific session: The Upcoming

34. Retinal Lasers: Past, Present, and Future

Seenu M. Hariprasad¹, M. D. Ober²
(¹Chicago, ²Southfield)

Purpose: To review the proud history of the development of retinal lasers and summarize the key retinal laser studies. Shortcomings of present retinal laser devices and treatment strategies will be discussed. Future developments will be reviewed with a focus on Navigated Laser (NAVILAS), a new integrated diagnostic and laser therapeutic device for the evaluation and treatment of retinal disease using tracking technology.
Methods: Historical Perspective and Clinical / Laboratory Experience.
Results: Since the first use of natural sunlight to perform retinal coagulation in 1949, tremendous advances in laser technology have taken place from Carbon Arc to Xenon Arc to Ruby laser to modern lasers with a variety of wavelengths. Lens technology advanced along side the evolution of retinal lasers. The DRS, ETDRS, and DRCR Network studies validated the use of lasers to treat diabetic eye diseases and revealed that appropriate use of laser therapy can improve patient outcomes. Despite incredible advances in laser technology over the past 60 years, several shortcomings do exist. Future technologies will be reviewed in this presentation that proposes to address current shortcomings in terms of accuracy, image overlay, planning and documentation.
Conclusion: Despite the challenges we face in treating retinal disease with laser, we are optimistic that the future will bring new innovations to help us treat these patients even more effectively. The NAVILAS represents a significant advance in the diagnostic and therapeutic management of vitreoretinal disease. Further research is ongoing to best understand the impact of greater precision and accuracy as well as the proposed benefit of live overlay of an angiographic image with pre-planned treatment notation prior to laser application.