title: The technique and indications for photocoagulation in diabetic retinopathy. I. Principles of photocoagulation.
abstract: The beneficial effect of photocoagulation in diabetic retinopathy is now established (2-6, 10). Whereas the capability of providing photocoagulation is widespread, the indications and actual techniques are poorly defined. In this paper, we propose to discuss the principles of photocoagulation. In a following paper the detailed techniques required for the treatment of individual lesions and of different types of retinopathy will be discussed.
mesh_terms: D003930:Diabetic Retinopathy / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D007834:Lasers / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D008027:Light; D008028:Light Coagulation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D012160:Retina / Q000473:pathology / Q000528:radiation effects*; D012171:Retinal Vessels / Q000473:pathology