Panretinal (Scatter) Laser Photocoagulation

Medicare covers panretinal (scatter) laser photocoagulation for management of proliferative and pre-proliferative retinopathies, including proliferative diabetic retinopathy and severe diabetic macular edema when associated with pre-proliferative disease, and for ablation of retinal neovascularization in other proliferative retinopathies. Coverage is limited to these proliferative or pre-proliferative indications; initial treatment commonly involves ~1,500–2,000 laser spots per eye delivered in two or more sessions, and clinicians should initiate treatment only when expected benefit outweighs treatment risks.

"Panretinal laser photocoagulation is indicated for treatment or management of proliferative diabetic retinopathy."

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