Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the effects of thermal laser photocoagulation in people with age related macular degeneration (AMD).

Authors' recommendations: The studies identified had adequate methodological quality to contribute to the review question with vision itself as an outcome. The studies consistently found that laser treatment was beneficial in the neovascular lesions of AMD. Benefits were seen in terms of maintenance of visual acuity, lower levels of severe loss of vision and of vision poor enough to meet the criterion for legal blindness. In addition, a higher proportion of treated patients were able to continue to read. The studies found that laser maintained contrast sensitivity, which is a proxy for the ability to perform activities of daily living. However, no studies explored this outcome specifically in a validated way. The one study with quality of life as an outcome was underpowered.

Authors' methods: Review

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.wihrd.soton.ac.uk

Year Published: 2001

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England

Organisation Name: Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development

Contact Address: Pauline King. Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development, Boldrewood Medical School, Bassett Crescent East, Highfield, Southampton. SO16 7PX Tel. +44 1703 595661 Fax +44 1703 595662

Copyright: Bazian Ltd, Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development