Diode laser photocoagulation of choroidal hemangioma

Background: The argon laser photocoagulation has recently become the treatment of choice in choroidal hemangioma. We evaluated the efficacy of the near infrared wavelength diode laser in the treatment of such tumours. This wavelength is not highly absorbed by the retinal pigment epithelium and penetrates deep into the choroid. Methods: Two cases of choroidal haemangioma with a serous detachment of the neural retina were diagnosed with ophthalmoscopy, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, A-scan and B-scan ultrasonography and treated with a surface photocoagulation with a diode laser. The efficacy of photocoagulation was evaluated three, six, twelve and fifteen months after laser treatment. Results: The resorption of the subretinal fluid and a reduction in thickness of the tumour followed laser photocoagulation. Conclusions: Diode lasers might be effective in the treatment of choroidal haemangioma.