Glaucoma Laser

Glaucoma laser

        If glaucoma is worsening despite treatment or if the medication is poorly tolerated, laser surgery can be undertaken. It aims to help the flow of aqueous humor in the eye. The response is quick: it takes five to ten minutes.

• The peripheral iridotomy. It involves creating a tiny hole in the iris to allow aqueous humor to flow again through its natural route of excretion. Anesthetic drops are first applied to the eye, along with a contact lens (removed after treatment). After treatment, anti-inflammatory drops are prescribed and must be applied on the eye for a few days.
• The trabeculoplasty. It consists of applying laser energy to the trabecular meshwork. This intervention is practiced in one or two sessions of five minutes. The treatment does not cause pain. We can not explain exactly why this procedure lowers the pressure. This intervention is increasingly common. Sometimes it is even before the proposed use of eye drops. Even if a laser procedure is performed, medication (usually eye drops) should still be followed for life.

Glaucoma laser pictures

        In the case of refractory glaucoma a laser on the ciliary body is used. By weakening a number of ciliary processes is decreased the production of aqueous humor and thereby is reduced intraocular pressure. It is then a special laser (laser diode) applied directly over the eye with a disposable probe. Deep anesthesia of the eye is required. An anesthesia consultation is necessary.