Diseases of the macula: the diagnosis and management of choroidal neovascularization

Choroidal neovascularization is the major complication of several macular diseases. Criteria for the selection of patients for consideration of photocoagulation treatment are presented. The distance of the foveal edge of the choroidal new vessel membrane to the center of the fovea is the most important criterion in considering the patient for photocoagulation. Photocoagulation is not considered unless the edge of the new vessel membrane is at least one fourth disc diameter (375micron) from the center of the fovea. Randomized controlled studies are required to document the role of photocoagulation therapy for choroidal neovascularization.