[Photocoagulation in retinal branch vein occlusion (RBVO) (author's transl)].

54 cases of retinal branch vein occlusion, 19 of which received photocoagulation treatment, were reviewed to assess the value of photocoagulation in this disease. Our results suggest that the effect of photocoagulation in the treatment of macular edema is not convincing. This finding is in contrast to the main stream in literature. On the other hand the treatment's beneficial effect in destroying or preventing neovascularisations in the course of RBVO seems established and may even be enhanced with the technique described. On the basis of our results and theoretical considerations, some guidelines for the care and treatment of RBVO patients are suggested.