This document addresses photocoagulation laser treatment of macular drusen. Photocoagulation laser treatment is a technique used to treat soft macular drusen, pale whitish-yellow deposits of extracellular material on the retinal pigment epithelium layer of the retina. Soft drusen accompany the early stages of age-related maculopathy (ARM). The presence of soft macular drusen has been linked to higher rates of progression to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the advanced stage of ARM.

Position Statement

Investigational and Not Medically Necessary:

Photocoagulation of macular drusen is considered investigational and not medically necessary.