Methods: This was a prospective cohort study involving newly diagnosed PDR patients. All patients underwent specular microscopy examination (CCT, ECD and endothelial cell area CoV) both pre-PRP and at 1-week and 6-weeks after the final PRP session (post-PRP). A Carl Zeiss Visulas Argon laser (532 nm) was used to perform PRP.
Results: A total of 33 newly diagnosed PDR patients were included in this study. There were no significant differences in mean CCT, ECD, and endothelial cell area CoV at 1-week and 6-weeks following PRP compared to pre-treatment baseline (p > 0.05). Further, there were no significant correlations between laser energy delivered and CCT, ECD and endothelial cell area CoV at either post-PRP examination time.
Conclusion: Argon laser (523 nm) energy delivered within recommended ranges for PRP had no adverse effects on corneal structure.