The early change in the visual field in diabetic retinopathy(DR)are often more timely than visual acuity. However, panretinal photocoagulation(PRP)treatment for DR not only delays the progression of the disease, but also causes adverse side effects such as loss of vision and visual field in the affected eye. Studies have shown that patients with DR after PRP treatment may fail a driving test due to visual field defect within a central range of 20°. In order to ensure the efficacy of PRP and achieve the purpose of reducing complications, laser technology has been continuously improved and developed. By adjusting laser parameters, utilizing new laser systems, combining with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)drugs, and integrating traditional Chinese and Western medicine, the visual field in the affected eye can be improved to a certain extent, leading to better treatment outcome. In the future, the degree of retinal ishemia should be quantitatively assessed using the ischemic index(ISI), and the optimal threshold and photocoagulation range of PRP treatment recommendations should be explored based on the ISI index and the distribution of retinal non-perfusion area, so as to provide a more timely and reasonable personalized treatment plan for DR patients. This article briefly reviews the effect of PRP on the visual field in the treatment of DR.