Local treatment options

Laser photocoagulation

Lasers are used to apply heat to destroy cancer cells. The laser beam is aimed through the dilated pupil to the retina. Laser treatment may be used alone for smaller tumors or combined with chemotherapy for larger tumors. There is usually very little discomfort for the patient after laser treatment.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy (freezing treatment) is a treatment that uses a metal probe to freeze cancer cells from the outside of the eye to the inside and directly over the tumor on the retina. This is generally used for smaller tumors toward the edge of the retina or is used if laser treatment is not effective. Following treatment there may be some mild redness, swelling and discomfort for a couple days.