Innovations in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy and other retinal vascular disorders

There have been a number of incremental improvements in laser technology in recent years. For instance, lasers using gas discharge tubes and mechanical shutters have almost completely been superseded by solid-state lasers which can deliver much shorter and more accurately controlled pulses of energy. These innovations have improved the tolerability of laser treatment from the patient’s perspective and have improved the safety of treatment.

The introduction of anti-VEGF agents has improved the prospects of maintaining or improving visual acuity in diffuse diabetic maculopathy which is often refractory to laser.

A sustained-release formulation of dexamethasone for intravitreal injection has been licensed for use in retinal vein occlusions, and this has improved the outlook for central vision.

The treatment for diabetic retinopathy has also benefited greatly from measures to improve blood sugar control, blood pressure control and blood lipids in diabetic patients in recent years.