Laser treatment in subjects with high-risk clinical features of age- related macular degeneration: Posterior pole appearance and retinal function

Abstract

Objectives: To verify that a few laser lesions in the posterior pole can cause drusen to resolve in patients with age-related macular degeneration, and to document central retinal sensitivity as drusen resolve. Design: In a pilot study, 12 patients considered to be at high risk for sight-threatening complications from age-related macular degeneration were treated with 12 argon laser lesions in the posterior pole, with review for 12 to 24 months. Results: Choroidal neovascularization developed in 1 patient 8 months after treatment, with consequent loss of central vision. In 9 of the remaining 11 patients, high-risk characteristics of drusen were reduced. Four patients had retinal pigment epit..