Fotokoagulering

Fotokoagulering, or photocoagulation, is a medical procedure that uses focused light to coagulate tissue by heating. The light is absorbed by pigmented structures such as hemoglobin or melanin, causing localized heating that denatures proteins and seals small blood vessels. The result is controlled coagulation and tissue destruction where desired, with the goal of stopping bleeding, reducing leakage, or destroying abnormal tissue.

In ophthalmology, photocoagulation is commonly performed with argon or diode lasers. Techniques include focal or grid photocoagulation for macular edema and panretinal photocoagulation for proliferative diabetic retinopathy. It may also be used to perform laser retinopexy to seal retinal tears and prevent detachment. In dermatology and other surgical fields, photocoagulation is used to coagulate blood vessels in vascular lesions, treat superficial skin lesions, and aid in hemostasis during procedures.

Advantages include that the procedure is minimally invasive, typically performed on an outpatient basis, and offers rapid recovery. Risks depend on the treated area and may include temporary or permanent changes in vision when used on the retina, scarring, burns, infection, or pigment changes. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia or topical analgesia, and protective eyewear is required for both patient and staff in ophthalmic settings. Recovery times vary by indication and laser type, with guidance provided by the treating clinician.