Optical coherence tomography angiogropahy changes in patients with diabetic retinopathy treated with panretinal...

We evaluated retinal microvascular changes in patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) treated with panretinal photocoagulation (PRP), using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Nineteen studies were included that assess changes in vessel density (VD) within the superficial capillary plexus (SCP), the deep capillary plexus (DCP), and the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area. PRP was associated with a significant increase in VD in the SCP, particularly in the foveal region, with greater improvements observed during long-term follow-up. In contrast, changes in the DCP were less consistent; however, a mild increase in foveal VD was noted over time. Additionally, a borderline reduction in FAZ area was observed after PRP, suggesting enhanced macular perfusion. These findings highlight the localized and time-dependent vascular effects of PRP and support the use of OCTA as a non-invasive, layer-specific tool for monitoring treatment outcomes in DR.