Patient comfort levels and treatment parameters in laser photocoagulation: comparison of patterned scanning versus single spot laser machines

Aims: To compare the t reatment parameters , outcomes, and patient comfort levels following patterned scanning laser photocoagulation versus single spot laser photocoagulation. Methods: This prospective randomized controlled trial involved 18 eyes of 16 patients. Patients with retinal diseases requiring laser photocoagulation to the retina were recruited and randomized to undergo laser photocoagulation using patterned scanning laser or single spot laser machines. Treatment parameters were recorded. Comfort levels and cooperation were evaluated by visual analog scales by both the patients and treating ophthalmologists. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between treatment parameters in the two groups except that the patterned scanning laser group had a shorter laser shot duration (p < 0.001). Regarding the patient comfort levels and cooperation, there were no significant differences with respect to the two machines used (p = 0.95 and 0.45, respectively). Conclusions: Patterned scanning and single spot laser photocoagulation appeared to result in similar patient comfort. The use of patterned scanning laser machine did not appear to reduce the time required for the procedure.