A pilot randomized controlled study on the effect of laser photocoagulation of confluent soft macular drusen.
OBJECTIVE
The authors determined the effect of photocoagulation of drusen on visual acuity and progression to subretinal neovascular membranes (SRNV).


METHODS
One of paired eyes was randomized to photocoagulation with other eye to control in 27 patients having symmetrical maculopathy and visual acuities, aged 46 to 81 years (mean, 69.7 years); follow-up 1 to 6 years (mean, 3.2 years).


RESULTS
Final visual acuity was improved in treated eye or decreased in control eye in 12 patients, equal in 13 patients, and decreased in treated eye in 2 patients (P < 0.006). Progression to SRNV was less with treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Laser photocoagulation of confluent soft macular drusen may improve long-term visual prognosis.
Little
H L
HL
Zweng Memorial Retinal Research Foundation, Menlo Park, California 94025, USA.
Showman
J M
JM
Brown
B W
BW
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005451:Fluorescein Angiography; D006801:Humans; D017075:Laser Coagulation; D008266:Macula Lutea / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010781:Photography; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011184:Postoperative Period; D015593:Retinal Drusen / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014792:Visual Acuity