Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat eye diseases caused by abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. For example, this treatment is often used in the treatment of macular degeneration. Through the combined use of a light-activated medication and a high-tech laser, specific tissues within the eye can be targeted and effectively treated without risking damage to healthy tissue in the vicinity.
Implementing Photodynamic Therapy for Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a frequent cause of vision loss in older adults, and can even lead to blindness. There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Photodynamic therapy is only used in the wet type due to the problematic blood vessel growth associated with this form of AMD.
While photodynamic therapy will not restore lost vision, it can slow down the process of further damage and help stabilize your eyesight. This is why it is often chosen for those who are experiencing gradual, rather than sudden, vision issues related to wet AMD. Although new drugs that target specific proteins in the eye are becoming an increasingly popular treatment for this condition, photodynamic therapy is often used in conjunction to provide the best possible outcomes.
What to Expect From the Photodynamic Therapy Procedure
PDT is typically done as an outpatient procedure and is a relatively straightforward process. First, a photosensitizing agent will be injected into your bloodstream. This may take a few minutes, as it is important for the drug to circulate throughout your body and reach the blood vessels in your eye.
Next, you will be given anesthetic eye drops to numb your eye, followed by the placement of a special contact lens on the surface of your eye. The purpose of this lens is to ensure the laser focuses exactly where it needs to.
The process then begins when the ophthalmologist shines the laser into your eye. This activates the drug circulating in your blood stream, causing it to seal off leaking blood vessels. Once these quick steps are complete, you’ll be allowed to return home.
Photodynamic Therapy Side Effects
Over the next few days, you may find that your eyes and skin are both more sensitive to light than usual. As a result, you may want to remain indoors and away from direct sunlight. You may also find that your vision is blurry and your eyes feel a bit sore, but you should not be in severe pain. If you do experience significant pain, redness, or swelling, contact your doctor immediately.
Understanding the Success Rate of Photodynamic Therapy
While photodynamic therapy is considered to have a high success rate in that it slows the progression of wet AMD and lowers the risk of additional vision loss, it does not frequently provide an improvement in vision acuity. Furthermore, multiple sessions are often required when abnormal blood vessels return.
Learn More About Photodynamic Therapy for Eye Disease From Sight360
If you are facing the consequences of age-related macular degeneration or another disease affecting the retina, you may wonder whether photodynamic therapy could be the right treatment option for you. For more information about this and other available treatments, reach out to the local specialists at Sight360. With our unparalleled expertise and cutting-edge treatment equipment, we’re the local source of all things related to vision health.