Laser Treatment for Glaucoma

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) uses short pulses of low energy light, aimed at the drainage angle at the front of the eye, to improve the outflow of fluid from within the eye – lowering eye pressure.

It is often used in Open Angle Glaucoma as a first line treatment (to negate the need for eye drops), as a supplement to existing medications (if the glaucoma damage is worsening) or if side effects from eye drops have become intolerable. 

The aim of SLT is to lower pressure within the eye. It does not improve vision. It is a safe and effective procedure with a very low complication rates.

Laser Iridotomy

Laser iridotomy is normally performed to treat people with angle-closure glaucoma. During iridotomy, the laser creates a small hole through the iris to improve the flow of fluid from the back of the eye to the trabecular meshwork and therefore lower the intraocular pressure. The hole is so small it cannot be seen with the naked eye.

The procedure is done in the office and is virtually painless. 

Cyclophotocoagulation or Laser Cyclo-Ablation

Laser cyclo-ablation may be helpful in treating people with very severe glaucoma, which has not been manageable with medications or surgeries. In cyclophotocoagulation, a laser is used to destroy the parts of the ciliary body, a part of the eye that produces eye fluid. This therapy decreases the production of fluid thus reducing eye pressure. This procedure is performed in a day surgery.