Diode laser photocoagulation of choroidal neovascularization associated with retinal pigment epithelial detachment

Aims/Background: Association of choroidal neovascularization with pigment epithelial detachment is not an uncommon feature. Since this condition usually has a poor visual outcome, new treatments should be developed. Methods: We studied the anatomical and visual results of 11 eyes with this association as a manifestation of an Exudative Age Related Macular Degeneration which were treated with diode laser photocoagulation guided by indocyanine green angiography. The average follow up time was 25.5 months (from 12 to 48 months). Results: Complete closure with complete resolution of the exudates and flattening of the detachment was observed in five eyes (45%). Visual acuity in the final examination improved or remained stable in 6 cases (55%). Conclusion: These results indicate that diode laser photocoagulation guided by indocyanine green angiography is at least as effective as conventional lasers with shorter wavelengths for treatment of vascularized pigment epithelial detachments in Age Related Macular Degeneration.