Comparative Analysis of Pain and Duration in Panretinal Photocoagulation: Navilas Laser versus Conventional Laser in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the pain perception and treatment duration in patients undergoing panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) for high-risk proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) using Navilas laser versus conventional laser.

METHODS

A study was conducted involving 40 patients with bilateral high-risk PDR. Each patient underwent PRP with conventional laser in one eye and Navilas laser in the other. Laser parameters, including spot size and pulse duration were standardized. Pain perception was evaluated using Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).

RESULTS

The Navilas and conventional laser groups showed no significant differences in baseline visual acuity, lens status, intraocular pressure, cup-to-disc ratio, or cystoid macular edema. The duration of laser treatment was significantly shorter with Navilas laser group (517.3±48.78 seconds, p<0.001). Pain scores (VAS and VRS) were significantly lower in the Navilas laser group (p<0.001, p=0.002 respectively) than in conventional laser group. There was no correlation between VAS and VRS scores and laser time in both the Navilas and conventional laser groups (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Utilizing the Navilas laser for PRP in PDR patients offers advantages over conventional lasers, including reduced pain and expedited procedures. These findings contribute valuable insights for optimizing clinical decisions, potentially enhancing patient compliance and minimizing the risk of visual deterioration in diabetic retinopathy treatment.