Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

(SLT)

Open angle glaucoma is a condition where patients have a problem because the fluid inside your eye does not drain properly through small channels called the trabecular meshwork. SLT involves applying laser spots to the meshwork via a special focusing lens. The laser stimulates the bodies' natural restorative processes to clean and open your meshwork. This lowers the pressure in your eye.

What Results Can I Expect?

Ninety percent of SLT patients will have a significant drop in pressure. However, 10% of patients will not respond to treatment.

What Will I Experience?

You will need to arrange for transportation to the surgery center. You may not drive yourself. You will not require changing from your dress clothes. Topical anesthetic drops will be applied. A special focusing lens will be held to your eye while laser light is applied. You may see flashes of light as well as hearing a clicking sound. The procedure should be painless. The procedure will take 5 - 10 minutes per eye. Both eyes may be treated on the same day. Your vision will be slightly blurred for several hours after the procedure.

It will be several weeks before we know the full effect of the laser treatment on your eye pressure. However, many patients will be able to discontinue some of their medication post treatment. SLT may also be utilized as an initial treatment of glaucoma instead of eye drops.

What is the primary advantage of SLT?

Besides an excellent safety profile, SLT offers freedom from worrying if you missed taking your eye drops. Most studies reveal that drops are omitted 25% of the time in glaucoma patients. Most of these patients feel that they are taking the drops 95% of the time. This failure in true compliance with your medication regimen can result in poor control of your glaucoma.

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