Michael W Stewart1. 1. Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida 32224, USA. stewart.michael@mayo.edu
Abstract
PURPOSE: To report the use of the infrared diode laser with long-duration pulses to successfully treat a patient with recurrent vitreous hemorrhages due to an avulsed retinal arteriole. DESIGN: Interventional case report. METHODS: A 70-year-old man presented with repeated, visually significant vitreous hemorrhages due to an avulsed retinal arteriole. Infrared diode laser photocoagulation with long-duration, large, overlapping spots was performed on either side of the avulsed segment. RESULTS: Resolution of the hemorrhage occurred within 1 month, without further episodes of bleeding. Two-year follow-up with fluorescein angiography showed complete cessation of blood flow through the treated segment. CONCLUSIONS: Infrared diode laser photocoagulation with long-duration pulses may be an effective, minimally invasive treatment of the avulsed retinal vessel syndrome.
PURPOSE: To report the use of the infrared diode laser with long-duration pulses to successfully treat a patient with recurrent vitreous hemorrhages due to an avulsed retinal arteriole. DESIGN: Interventional case report. METHODS: A 70-year-old man presented with repeated, visually significant vitreous hemorrhages due to an avulsed retinal arteriole. Infrared diode laser photocoagulation with long-duration, large, overlapping spots was performed on either side of the avulsed segment. RESULTS: Resolution of the hemorrhage occurred within 1 month, without further episodes of bleeding. Two-year follow-up with fluorescein angiography showed complete cessation of blood flow through the treated segment. CONCLUSIONS: Infrared diode laser photocoagulation with long-duration pulses may be an effective, minimally invasive treatment of the avulsed retinal vessel syndrome.