Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty
Drug therapy is the most common form of treatment for open-angle glaucoma, but sometimes there are side effects and medication isn’t effective and you may also need laser treatment.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty is gentle, non-thermal and non-invasive. During this quick and painless procedure the laser uses quick uses short pulses of low-energy light to target melanin (pigment) in specific cells of the eye. The body’s natural healing mechanisms go to work to rebuild these cells. The rebuilding process helps improve drainage and lowers intraocular pressure.
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy
Laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) is indicated by creating an alternative route for aqueous flow to avoid or remove a suspected relative pupillary block. Mainly used for patients in the primary angle closure spectrum, it can also be useful in secondary angle closure glaucoma and in the management of other types of glaucoma with associated pupillary block.
Laser iridotomy uses a very focused beam of light to create a hole in the peripheral iris, the colored part of the eye. This opening allows fluid (aqueous humor) to flow between the anterior chamber, the front part of the eye, and the area behind the iris, the posterior chamber. This opening may decrease pressure in the eye and prevents a sudden buildup of pressure within the eye.
