Retinal Vascular Occlusion and Laser Photocoagulation

Retinal Vascular Occlusion

Retinal vascular occlusion is a significant condition that affects eye health. The retina, which is the light-sensitive layer of our eye, is nourished by blood flow that provides essential nutrients and oxygen to the nerve cells responsible for vision.

Types of Retinal Vascular Occlusion

1. Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO):

Occurs when the main vein within the retina becomes blocked. This blockage leads to leakage of blood and excess fluid from the venous walls into the retina. The accumulation of fluid in the macula can result in blurred vision.

2. Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO):

Involves the blockage of a branch of the retinal veins. Hemorrhages behind the blocked retinal vessel and fluid accumulation in the macula also lead to blurred vision.

Symptoms

  • Sudden Decrease in Vision: In both species, sudden decrease in vision due to fluid accumulating in the macula is the most obvious symptom.
  • Minimal Decreases or Serious Vision Loss: Vision loss may occur depending on the affected vessel and the complications it causes.

Risk factors

  • Age: It is more common in people over the age of 60.
  • Smoking: Smoking may increase the risk of vascular occlusion.
  • High Blood Pressure, Diabetes and Blood Diseases: These factors may also lay the groundwork for the formation of the disease.
  • High Cholesterol and Diabetes: High cholesterol levels and diabetes can increase the risk of retinal vascular occlusion.
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): High blood pressure can damage the vessel walls and cause blockage.
  • Smoking Habit: Smoking negatively affects vascular health and increases the risk of blockage.

Routine eye and retina examinations are important for the diagnosis of this disease. Retinal Angiography and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) are commonly used to diagnose the disease.

Treatment Methods

  • Laser Treatment: It can be applied if there is an obstruction in some of the retinal veins.
  • Drug Treatment: Cortisone or anti-VEGF treatment can be applied into the eye. These drugs injected into the eye can reduce the effects of occlusion by preventing vascular growth.
  • Retinal Surgery: In some cases, retinal surgery may be required.

What is Laser Photocoagulation (Laser Treatment)?

Laser Photocoagulation is a commonly used method in the treatment of retinal vascular occlusion. This treatment is performed by applying laser light on the retina in a controlled manner.

Photocoagulation is based on the principle that laser light selectively produces heat on the retina. Laser light focuses on the tissues near the clogged vessels, causing controlled heating in these areas. Heated tissues stop abnormal growth that causes vascular occlusion and reduce bleeding.

In Which Situations Is It Used?

  • Photocoagulation is effective in the treatment of retinal vascular occlusion.
  • It is preferred for conditions such as central vein occlusion (CVRT) and branch retinal vein occlusion (RVDT).
  • It is used to reduce macular edema (fluid accumulation in the macula) and retinal hemorrhages.

Application Process

The laser light is focused according to the occlusion of the eye vessels. During the treatment, the patient is usually under local anesthesia. Laser pulses are applied to target areas on the retina. There may be a slight burning or redness in the eye after treatment.

Risks and Side Effects

Photocoagulation is generally a safe method, but there are some risks. Side effects such as temporary blurred vision, sensitivity to light and eye fatigue may occur. In rare cases, there may be a risk of retinal tears or infection.

Lifestyle Changes for Retinal Vascular Occlusion

To prevent retinal vascular occlusion, you should eat healthy, exercise regularly and not skip your routine eye examinations.
Omega-3 fatty acids, green leafy vegetables and fruits are important for retina health. Physical activity protects retinal vessels by increasing blood circulation. Regular eye examinations are also important for early diagnosis and treatment.

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