Laser vitreolysis for symptomatic floaters is not yet ready for widespread adoption

Vitreous floaters are common, related to age, myopia, genetic predisposition, and infiltration of the vitreous body. A subset of patients report symptoms impacting their quality of vision. Treatment with laser vitreolysis, the use of an Nd:YAG laser to vaporize the collagenous vitreous opacities app...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Survey of ophthalmology 2020-09, Vol.65 (5), p.589-591
Main Authors: Su, Daniel, Shah, Chirag P., Hsu, Jason
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
floaterectomy
floaters
laser vitreolysis
vitreous opacities
YAG vitreolysis
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Summary:Vitreous floaters are common, related to age, myopia, genetic predisposition, and infiltration of the vitreous body. A subset of patients report symptoms impacting their quality of vision. Treatment with laser vitreolysis, the use of an Nd:YAG laser to vaporize the collagenous vitreous opacities appears to be used more frequently; however, data regarding long-term safety and effectiveness are lacking. We present currently available data regarding efficacy and safety, as well as additional considerations. Laser vitreolysis of symptomatic floaters should not be routinely performed without additional studies documenting its safety and long-term efficacy. Ideally, the procedure would be effective in most patients and be approved by the Food and Drug Administration based on the results of a Food and Drug Administration registration trial before widespread adoption.
ISSN:0039-6257
1879-3304
DOI:10.1016/j.survophthal.2020.02.007