In the past, panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) and vitrectomy (PPV) were the main treatments for proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). In recent years, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs have been used more and more widely in PDR due to their advantages in rapidly subtracting new blood vessels, reducing leakage, and promoting the absorption of blood. The combination of anti-VEGF drugs and PRP in the treatment of PDR, especially high-risk PDR, can increase the rate of neovascularization and prevent some patients with mild to moderate vitreous hemorrhage from PPV. The application of anti-VEGF drugs during the perioperative period of PPV can also reduce bleeding during the operation, shorten the operation time, and reduce surgical complications. Although clinical studies have confirmed that anti-VEGF drugs can be used as an alternative treatment for PRP, most patients require multiple and long-term treatments, which increase the psychological and economic burden of patients. It is expected that the cost of anti-VEGF drugs and the development of long-acting dosage forms can be reduced and bring better efficacy and benefits to PDR patients in the future. © 2021 Chinese Medical Association