Diabetic retinopathy laser surgery is a procedure used to treat diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that causes damage to the blood vessels in the retina. The laser is used to target and seal leaking blood vessels, reduce swelling, and prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels that can lead to vision loss. This surgery is typically performed when diabetic retinopathy causes significant damage to the retina, such as macular edema or proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

The laser treatment works by creating small burns on the retina to close off the damaged blood vessels and prevent further leakage. This helps to stabilize vision and reduce the risk of further complications like retinal detachment. Patients who undergo laser surgery typically experience significant improvements in vision and long-term stabilization.

Laser surgery is an effective, well-established treatment for diabetic retinopathy that can prevent or reduce vision loss in patients with this serious complication of diabetes.