PRP Laser Treatment for Retinal Vein Occlusion: Reducing VEGF Drive to Protect Vision

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is one of the most common retinal vascular disorders and a leading cause of sudden, painless vision loss. Although intravitreal anti-VEGF injections have revolutionised the treatment of macular oedema associated with RVO, laser therapy continues to play a vital role in carefully selected patients. Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) remains an important treatment for eyes that develop significant retinal ischaemia, helping to reduce the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and prevent potentially sight-threatening complications.

When a retinal vein becomes blocked, areas of the retina are deprived of oxygen. This retinal ischaemia stimulates the release of VEGF, a protein that promotes leakage from retinal blood vessels and the growth of abnormal new blood vessels. Elevated VEGF contributes to macular oedema and is the principal driver of neovascularisation, which can lead to vitreous haemorrhage, tractional retinal complications and neovascular glaucoma.

PRP laser treatment works by applying controlled laser burns to carefully selected areas of the peripheral ischaemic retina. By reducing the metabolic demand of these oxygen-deprived areas, PRP decreases the stimulus for ongoing VEGF production. This helps create a healthier retinal environment and significantly reduces the risk of abnormal blood vessel growth. In patients with extensive retinal ischaemia, PRP is an evidence-based intervention that plays a crucial role in preserving vision and preventing severe complications.

While anti-VEGF injections remain the cornerstone of treatment for macular oedema, reducing the underlying VEGF stimulus with PRP may, in selected patients with ischaemic retinal vein occlusion, complement medical therapy and contribute to improved long-term disease control. Treatment decisions are always individualised and based on detailed retinal assessment rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Mr Kumar is an experienced medical retina specialist with extensive expertise in the diagnosis and management of retinal vein occlusion. Using advanced retinal imaging, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) and ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography where indicated, he carefully assesses the extent of retinal ischaemia before recommending treatment. His comprehensive understanding of retinal vascular disease enables him to determine the optimal timing for PRP laser, ensuring that treatment is delivered when it offers the greatest clinical benefit.

Patients from Reading, Windsor, Berkshire and the surrounding Thames Valley are referred to Mr Kumar for specialist management of retinal vein occlusion and its complications. His practice combines the latest evidence, modern retinal imaging and meticulous laser technique with personalised patient care. By integrating PRP laser with anti-VEGF therapy where appropriate, Mr Kumar aims to reduce VEGF-driven complications, preserve retinal function and maximise long-term visual outcomes.

If you have been diagnosed with retinal vein occlusion or have been told you have retinal ischaemia, early assessment by an experienced retinal specialist is essential. Timely intervention with the most appropriate treatment—whether anti-VEGF injections, PRP laser, or a combination of both—can significantly reduce the risk of vision-threatening complications and help protect your sight for the future.