Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Macular degeneration is a condition in which abnormal blood vessels develop under the central retina area, known as the macula. These blood vessels rupture, releasing blood and fluid that can raise the macula and distort vision. Lasers are sometimes used to burn these blood vessels, creating scar tissue that cuts off the flow of fluids and prevents further growth. For some patients, though, the laser may damage surrounding tissue.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) provides many patients with an alternative to laser treatment of macular degeneration. In this procedure, a special liquid chemical is injected into the arm and travels to the blood vessels in the eye. A special wavelength light is then used to activate the chemical, which coagulates the blood and stops the flow.

Neither PDT nor laser treatment is a permanent solution for macular degeneration, since new blood vessels will continue to develop.

Learn more about macular degeneration treatment.