Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT)
Overview
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is one of the first-line choices to reduce intraocular pressure for open-angle glaucoma. It uses a laser beam that targets specific cells through which the intraocular fluid drains out of the eye. The energy from the laser can stimulate the drainage function to facilitate aqueous outflow, which lowers the pressure in the eye.
Features Summary
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Intraocular pressure is a well-known risk factor for the development and progression of glaucoma. Pressure-lowering therapy is the only effective treatment for halting the progression of glaucomatous change. Current treatment options include medication, laser, and surgery. Among them, SLT has been proven as effective as one topical glaucoma medication (e.g. prostaglandin analog) and can be used as a first-line treatment for ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma subjects. SLT also provides several potential benefits, including freedom from eye drops or less daily burden of eye drops, less visual field progression rate, and the need for surgery compared to sole medical therapy.
Procedure
The treatment is performed at the outpatient clinic. After the anesthetic eyedrop, a goniolens was placed on the eye. The physician then observes the angle structure through a slit lamp biomicroscope, directs the laser beam to the trabecular meshwork, and applies a small amount of energy each spot for 180 or 360 degrees. The entire process takes just a few minutes. When it is completed, the physician will prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops for you.
Notification
Following the laser treatment, your vision will be blurry for a few hours, but this condition will improve spontaneously. There is very little likelihood that SLT will have a long-term negative impact on your vision or intraocular pressure. Inflammation can develop, and pressure may spike shortly after therapy. If this occurs, you could need additional interventions to decrease the pressure.
Estimated Cost
For estimated medical costs, please contact International Medical Services Center.