Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a specialized treatment used to target and close abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The procedure combines a light-activated medication with a low-energy laser to treat certain retinal conditions that can threaten vision.
PDT is often used when abnormal blood vessel growth or fluid leakage is affecting the retina, helping to stabilize the condition and reduce the risk of further vision loss.
Why Is Photodynamic Therapy Performed?
Photodynamic therapy may be recommended to treat:
Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Helps close abnormal blood vessels that leak fluid and blood beneath the retina.
Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR): Reduces fluid buildup beneath the retina and promotes healing.
Choroidal Neovascularization: Treats abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina.
Macular Edema: May help reduce swelling in the central portion of the retina in select cases.
Certain Retinal Vascular Disorders: Can be used as part of a treatment plan for conditions involving abnormal retinal blood vessels.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Photodynamic therapy is performed in our office.
Medication Administration: A light-sensitive medication called verteporfin is injected into your bloodstream.
Medication Absorption: The medication travels through the bloodstream and concentrates in the abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina.
Laser Activation: A low-energy laser is directed into the eye to activate the medication, causing the targeted blood vessels to close while preserving nearby healthy tissue.
The laser portion of the procedure is painless, although you may notice bright lights during treatment.
Recovery After Treatment
Following PDT, it is important to protect your skin and eyes from direct sunlight and bright indoor lighting for five days, as the medication can temporarily increase light sensitivity. You may experience:
Temporary blurred vision
Mild light sensitivity
Temporary changes in visual clarity
Mild discomfort at the injection site
When outdoors, wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection and consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat for additional protection.
The Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy offers a targeted approach to treating abnormal retinal blood vessels while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue. For many patients, PDT can help reduce fluid leakage, stabilize vision, and slow disease progression. Depending on the condition being treated, additional PDT sessions or combination therapy with retinal injections may be recommended to achieve the best possible results.