Destruction of Retinopathy with Laser The physician destroys small vessels that are leaking blood on the retina by freezing or by laser. This procedure may be performed without entering the posterior chamber; a probe is pressed against the sclera overlying the site of the retinopathy until it is destroyed. With a laser light aimed through a dilated pupil without an incision, the physician may burn spots at the site of diabetic retinopathy to seal vessels that have been leaking into the retina. At least 500 Xenon arc burns or 2000 burns from an argon laser are applied. This procedure is often referred to as "scattered destruction." Multiple sessions may be required.