Central retinal vein occlusion is the result of outflow obstruction and is associated with a variety of medical conditions, mainly affecting the vascular system. Treatment of the coexistent medical conditions has no beneficial effect on visual outcome. Outflow obstruction has been treated by fibrinolytic agents and anticoagulants, hemodilution, and photocoagulation. None of these treatments were of value in improving or maintaining vision. Photocoagulation prevents neovascular complications in ischemic central retinal vein occlusion.