SLT
Selective laser trabeculoplasty. Usually used for open-angle glaucoma.
Read about SLTLASER & ADVANCED PROCEDURES
Laser treatment for glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve, often before a person notices changes in vision. Laser treatment may lower pressure inside the eye and help reduce the risk of further damage. The best treatment depends on the type of glaucoma and the condition of each eye.
ABOUT GLAUCOMA LASER
Main types of glaucoma laser treatment
Dr. Jinish Upadhyay at Truevision Eye Hospital can assess whether a glaucoma laser is suitable for you. Laser treatment does not restore vision already lost, and it does not always replace eye drops or other treatment.
The three procedures explained here are selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) and cyclophotocoagulation (CPC). They work in different ways and are used for different situations.
LPI
Laser peripheral iridotomy. Used for selected narrow-angle or angle-closure situations.
Read about LPICPC
Cyclophotocoagulation. Reduces fluid production when glaucoma is difficult to control.
Read about CPCPROCEDURE 1
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT)
What is SLT used for?
SLT is usually used for open-angle glaucoma. It applies brief laser spots to the drainage tissue inside the eye. The treatment encourages the natural drainage pathway to work better, which may lower eye pressure. SLT may be considered instead of or alongside eye drops.
What happens during SLT?
The eye is numbed with drops. The ophthalmologist may place a special contact lens on the eye to guide the laser. You may see flashes of light or feel brief discomfort. The procedure is usually done as an outpatient treatment. Vision can be blurry for a short time, and the clinic may check your eye pressure afterward.
How soon does SLT work, and will I still need drops?
The pressure-lowering effect can take several weeks to develop. Some people later use fewer drops, while others continue their existing medicines or need additional treatment. Keep follow-up visits and do not change your drops unless your eye doctor advises you to.
PROCEDURE 2
Laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI)
What is LPI used for?
In some eyes, the colored iris can block the drainage angle. LPI uses a laser to make a tiny opening in the outer part of the iris. This gives fluid another route and may help the iris move away from the drainage angle. It is used for selected narrow-angle or angle-closure situations; it is not a treatment for every type of glaucoma.
What might I notice after LPI?
Temporary blurred vision, mild ache or light sensitivity can occur. Less commonly, eye pressure rises, inflammation or bleeding occurs, or glare and light streaks persist. Your eye team may prescribe drops and recheck your pressure and drainage angle.
Does LPI mean I no longer need checkups?
No. The opening needs to be checked, and some eyes remain narrow or need other treatment. Keep all follow-up visits, even if you feel well.
PROCEDURE 3
Cyclophotocoagulation (CPC)
What is CPC used for?
CPC directs laser energy to the ciliary body, the tissue that makes fluid inside the eye. Reducing fluid production can lower eye pressure. CPC may be considered when glaucoma is difficult to control, when other treatments have not worked or are unsuitable, or in specific clinical situations. There are different ways to deliver CPC, and your ophthalmologist will explain which method is planned and why.
What are the possible risks of CPC?
The eye can be sore, red or inflamed, and vision may blur. Pressure may not fall enough, may rise temporarily or may become too low. Rarely, vision can worsen. The balance of benefit and risk depends on the condition of your eye and the CPC method used.
AFTER TREATMENT
What to expect after laser treatment
Follow the instructions from your clinic about eye drops, transport and aftercare. Attend pressure checks and all follow-up appointments. Glaucoma often has no early symptoms, so feeling well does not mean treatment or monitoring can stop. Your eye doctor will tell you whether to continue your current drops.
WHEN TO SEEK HELP
When to seek help
NEXT STEP
Discuss glaucoma laser treatment
To discuss glaucoma laser treatment, arrange an assessment with Dr. Jinish Upadhyay at Truevision Eye Hospital. The recommended option depends on an examination of your eyes and your individual treatment goals.