Optimizing laser Treatment for Diabetic Macular Edema

l aser photocoagulation continues to play a prominent role in the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME) despite the introduction of anti-VEGF medications. Although traditional continuous-wave laser mode has proved to be effective for DME, as shown in the Early Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy Study1 there are a number of drawbacks including, but not limited to, permanent destruction of the photoreceptors and enlargement of laser scars into the fovea with further deterioration of vision. We are now learning that modified treatment parameters and selective laser wavelengths have the ability to produce a less destructive and more therapeutic effect.