Factor for visual acuity following photocoagulation for age-related macular degeneration

We reviewed 39 eyes of age-related macular degeneration successfully treated by laser photocoagulation. All the eyes showed choroidal neovascularization in the fovea before treatment. The eyes were followed up for 6 to 78 months, mean 13 months. The whole area of choroidal neovascularization was photocoagulated when the visual acuity was 0.2 or less. The final visual acuity was significantly favorable when the distance between the margin of neovascularization and the foveola was less than 500 μm. SElective photocoagulation of feeder vessels was performed when located outside the fovea. Posttreatment visual acuity was significantly favorable in recent onset cases.