Passing the DVLC field regulations following bilateral pan-retinal photocoagulation in diabetics

Twenty-one diabetics who had had bilateral retinal panphotocoagulation preserving a visual acuity sufficient to pass the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Centre (DVLC) requirements were assessed with regard to their ability to satisfy the DVLC visual field requirements. Of the 19 patients treated with the laser alone, 17 met the requirements for a licence to drive a private vehicle. The use of the Xenon photocoagulator and large total burn area following laser was found to be associated with an increased risk of DVLC field test failure. Adequate PRP with 200 micron burns appeared to induce neovascular regression and be compatible with passing the DVLC field regulations in many patients. Panphotocoagulation of patients with early proliferative retinopathy using 200 micron burns does not appear to jeopardise a driving licence. Guidelines for laser treatment in diabetic retinopathy aimed at preserving the driving field are presented.