SELECTIVE LASER TRABECULOPLASTY (SLT)

Selective laser trabeculoplasty

This surgery is for people who have open-angle glaucoma and can be used instead of or in addition to medications. The eye doctor uses a laser to make the drainage angle work better. That way fluid flows out properly and eye pressure is reduced.

 

 

What happens during Selective laser trabeculoplasty?

The procedure is done at the Progressive Vision clinic.

  • Your eye will be numbed with eye drops. Your pupils won’t be dilated.
  • Your eye doctor will use a contact lens on your eye to apply the laser.
  • Once your vision is clear after the procedure, you can usually do all of your normal daily activities. But you may need to have someone drive you home. Your eye doctor will tell you if there are things you should not do right after surgery.
  • You will need to use a reducing dose of anti-inflammatory drops for 9 days.

 

What Are the Risks of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty laser treatment?

The procedure is generally safe and effective.

As with any surgery, there are risks with selective laser trabeculoplasty. In some cases, the surgery may not lower your eye pressure or control your glaucoma even when done properly.

Here are some of the most common and serious risks:

  • Failure to lower eye pressure and need for additional treatments, including surgery. Even when effective, it typically takes several weeks to see the effect of this laser and determine if further treatment is needed.
  • You may have an increase in eye pressure or inflammation shortly after the procedure.
  • You will need to use a reducing dose of anti-inflammatory drops for 9 days.
  • You should continue any drops that you typically take for eye pressure or glaucoma.
    Although rare and unusual, there may be bleeding with the eye, a corneal abrasion, cataract, or increase in the pressure in the eye requiring different and more extensive treatment. Other risks include loss of vision, pain, irritation, or discomfort in or around the eye.
  • If you are concerned in any way after your treatment, please contact Progressive Vision on 01 213 5652.
  • If outside of office hours, please contact the Emergency Department of the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital on 01 664 4600.