Treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Long-term results of argon laser photocoagulation.

Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) is the treatment of choice for proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Indications for treatment are the presence of disc new vessels or the presence of new vessels elsewhere with hemorrhage. Rubeosis iridis and retinal neovascularization undergo involution following panretinal photocoagulation. The long-term visual results are excellent excepting for eyes with diffuse diabetic retinal ischemia. Long-term follow-up and repeat photocoagulation as needed are advised.