Laser in the treatment for diabetic maculopathy: systematic review of randomized clinical trials

Abstract

Maculopathy is a complication of diabetic retinopathy and an important cause of blindness. For 20 years, the ETDRS (Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study) established that the argon laser photocoagulation reduces the risk of vision loss in patients with clinically significant diabetic macular edema. Although the development of pharmacological therapies, and advanced surgical techniques, the laser remains the gold standard for the treatment of diabetic maculopathy. However, some questions are not well established as the best form of laser application, the number and size of points, the precise amount of energy that must be used, and the effect of the combination of laser with other therapies. The lack of qualified scientific evidence in the literature involving these issues justifies the systematic review of the subject. The following databases will be searched: PubMed, CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library), Embase, and Lilacs. We will consider randomized controlled trials or quasi-randomized trials comparing any type of focal/grid macular laser photocoagulation (argon, diodo) versus, posterior vitrectomy, intravitreal corticosteroids, intravitreal antiangiogenics, a combination of two or more interventions, or no intervention. The data collection and analysis will be performed by two reviewers independently who will select studies that potential. The title of this systematic review is already registered with the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group of the Cochrane library.(AU)