DIABETIC RETINOPATHY: LASER PHOTOCOAGULATION AND SYSTEMIC CONTROL OF BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVELS

Abstract

Diabetic Retinopathy is a chronic and progressive ocular complication that significantly affects individuals with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. It is characterized by the deterioration of the retinal blood vessels, which can lead to irreversible vision loss if not treated early. One of the most established therapeutic modalities is Laser Photocoagulation, which aims to reduce macular edema and prevent the development of neovascularization. Objective: to evaluate the effectiveness of Laser Photocoagulation in patients with Diabetic Retinopathy, considering systemic control of glucose levels as an intervening variable. Methodology: the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed. Using the PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases, articles published in the last 10 years were explored, using the descriptors "diabetic retinopathy", "laser photocoagulation", "blood glucose control", "systemic management" and "clinical outcomes" . The inclusion criteria were: randomized controlled clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, published in English, Portuguese or Spanish. The exclusion criteria were: studies without a control group, case reports and studies with samples smaller than 20 patients. Results: The effectiveness of Laser Photocoagulation in reducing the risk of progression of Diabetic Retinopathy was highlighted, especially when combined with strict control of glucose levels. It has been observed that early intervention and appropriate management of diabetes contribute significantly to preserving vision and improving the quality of life of affected patients. Conclusion: Laser Photocoagulation continues to be an effective and widely used therapy in clinical practice for the treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy. The integration of this procedure with systemic control measures for glucose levels has demonstrated promising results in preventing serious ocular complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. This review reinforces the importance of multidisciplinary strategies in the management of this chronic condition, aiming not only to preserve vision, but also to promote the general health of diabetic patients.