Glaucoma laser surgery is a procedure used to treat glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure) that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. The goal of the surgery is to reduce this pressure and prevent further damage. There are different types of laser surgeries for glaucoma, depending on the type and severity of the disease:
1. Laser Trabeculoplasty
Purpose: Used for open-angle glaucoma, the most common form.
Procedure: A laser is used to open clogged drainage channels in the eye, allowing fluid (aqueous humor) to drain out more easily.
Types:
Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT): A laser is applied to the trabecular meshwork (the eye’s drainage system), helping fluid to drain.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): A lower-energy laser selectively targets specific cells in the trabecular meshwork.
Effectiveness: May reduce intraocular pressure by 20-30%, and can be repeated if necessary.
2. Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)
Purpose: Used for narrow-angle or angle-closure glaucoma, where the iris is too close to the drainage channels.
Procedure: A small hole is created in the iris (colored part of the eye) to allow fluid to flow more freely.
Effectiveness: Can prevent an acute attack of angle-closure glaucoma and lower intraocular pressure.
3. Cyclophotocoagulation
Purpose: Typically used for advanced or difficult-to-control glaucoma cases.
Procedure: A laser is applied to the ciliary body (which produces aqueous humor) to reduce fluid production.
Types:
Endoscopic Cyclophotocoagulation (ECP): A more targeted approach using an endoscope to deliver the laser.
Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation: Laser energy is delivered through the white part of the eye (sclera).
Effectiveness: Helps in lowering intraocular pressure but may lead to more complications.
4. Laser Suture Lysis
Purpose: Used after glaucoma filtering surgery (trabeculectomy) to modify or remove sutures that control fluid drainage.
Procedure: A laser is used to loosen or cut the sutures in the eye to improve fluid flow.
Benefits of Glaucoma Laser Surgery:
Non-invasive: Lasers are less invasive compared to traditional surgery.
Quick Recovery: The procedure usually takes a short time and is often performed in a clinic without the need for hospitalization.
Outpatient Procedure: Typically done on an outpatient basis.
Risks and Considerations:
Short-term Pressure Spike: In some cases, intraocular pressure may temporarily rise after surgery.
Need for Additional Treatments: Surgery might not be a permanent fix, and some patients may need repeat treatments or additional medications.
Possible Side Effects: These can include inflammation, blurry vision, or pain, although these are generally mild and temporary.
The choice of laser surgery depends on the type and progression of glaucoma, and your ophthalmologist will help determine the most suitable option for your condition.