Retinal Photocoagulation Laser: Wavelengths, Delivery and Selection

What retinal laser photocoagulation is

Retinal laser photocoagulation uses a visible or near-infrared beam focused on the retina. Pigmented tissue absorbs the light, the temperature rises locally, and the tissue coagulates. Surgeons use it in several settings, for example to treat areas of the retina in diabetic eye disease, to create a barrier around a retinal tear, or to treat abnormal vessels. Decisions about when and how to treat belong to the ophthalmologist and the patient, and this page does not give treatment advice.

Questions about benefits and risks are best discussed with the treating clinician. In general terms, laser treatment aims to stabilise disease rather than restore lost vision, and the treatment can have side effects such as discomfort during the procedure or changes in the visual field, which is why settings and spot placement are chosen carefully.

Wavelengths and emission modes

Green wavelengths around 514 to 532 nm are the classic choice for photocoagulation because haemoglobin and melanin absorb them well. The A.R.C. Laser CLASSIC 514 is a diode-based laser that reproduces the 514 nm wavelength of the original argon laser in a compact, low-maintenance device. Based on user feedback, A.R.C. Laser associates this wavelength with lower pain perception than KTP lasers.

Modern systems offer more than a single continuous spot. The CLASSIC 514 delivers up to 1.2 W, with freely selectable spot sizes from 50 to 600 µm, and offers single-pulse, gated and micropulse modes. Pulse lengths run from 15 ms to 2 s. Micropulse operation reduces thermal load and is discussed in more detail in micropulse laser in ophthalmology. For large-area treatment, see pan-retinal photocoagulation.

• 514 nm diode source reproducing the argon wavelength
• Up to 1.2 W output
• Spot size 50 to 600 µm
• Single-pulse, gated and micropulse modes
• Pulse length 15 ms to 2 s

Delivery systems: slit lamp, indirect ophthalmoscope and endoprobe

Most photocoagulators are delivered through a slit lamp with a contact lens, which suits clinic-based treatment. The laser sits on the table within reach, couples to the slit lamp optics, and the physician protection filter is built in. The CLASSIC 514 combines with slit lamps offering LED or halogen illumination, as well as in the VARIO system, which places two lasers on one table.

A laser indirect ophthalmoscope (LIO) allows treatment without a slit lamp, for example in a supine patient or in the neonatal unit. A.R.C. Laser supplies a Neitz indirect ophthalmoscope with laser coupling for the portable FOX 810 diode laser, connected through a patented click-plug system. See laser indirect ophthalmoscope and ROP laser treatment. In the operating room, an endoprobe delivers treatment during vitreoretinal surgery.

What to compare when buying a retinal laser

Compare the wavelength options and whether a second wavelength may be needed later, the available spot sizes and pulse modes, and the quality of the optics and the physician protection filter. Check the display: readability from the side and in a darkened room matters during long sessions. Also consider whether the laser can share a table with other lasers, which saves space if the clinic also provides glaucoma or capsule treatment.

Ask about training, local service and maintenance, since a retinal laser is used daily. Our ophthalmic laser buying guide gives a general checklist, and the article on types of ophthalmic lasers explains how the lasers differ. Confirm any registration and licensing requirements with DHA, DOH or MOHAP.

Safety and supply in the UAE

The CLASSIC 514 is a Class 4 laser, so use a controlled treatment area, matched eyewear for staff and a documented safety procedure. Beckfinity distributes the CLASSIC 514, the LIO and the VARIO from A.R.C. Laser in the UAE; contact our specialists to discuss a configuration for your retina service.