Serial optical coherence tomography of subthreshold diode laser micropulse photocoagulation for diabetic macular edema

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To use serial optical coherence tomography (OCT) to evaluate low-intensity, high-density subthreshold diode laser micropulse photocoagulation treatment of clinically significant diabetic macular edema. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Eighteen consecutive eyes of 14 patients with clinically significant diabetic macular edema and a minimum foveal thickness of 223 pm or greater were prospectively evaluated by OCT preoperatively and 1, 4, and 12 weeks following treatment. RESULTS: Overall, estimated macular edema 3 months postoperatively (minimum foveal thickness - 223 mu m) was reduced a mean of 24% (P =.02). Eleven eyes treated for recurrent or persistent clinically significant diabetic macular edema following prior treatment more than 3 months before study entry were most improved, with a mean reduction in estimated macular edema 3 months postoperatively of 59%. No treatment complications were observed. No patient demonstrated laser lesions following treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Low-intensity, high-density subthreshold diode laser micropulse photocoagulation can reduce or eliminate clinically significant diabetic macular edema measured by OCT Further study is warranted.