Laser Surgery for Glaucoma

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Laser treatment for narrow angle glaucoma
Narrow angle glaucoma can be treated with a laser. This laser treatment can be used to prevent an attack of narrow angle glaucoma, and it can also be used during an attack of narrow angle glaucoma, in order to lower the eye pressure. Narrow angle glaucoma involves a narrowing of the drainage area, or angle of the eye. This narrowing is caused because the iris of the eye moves closer to the drainage area in predisposed individuals. If the iris moves so close that it closes the drainage area, then the intraocular pressure increases, and narrow angle glaucoma is the result (• See Photo).

In laser treatment for narrow angle glaucoma, the laser is used to create a tiny microscopic hole in the iris of the eye, called an Iridotomy, so that fluid may pass through this hole (• See Photos). This allows the iris to fall back away from the drainage area. This usually prevents or cures narrow angle glaucoma.

This laser treatment is usually performed in the office with topical anesthetic drops. Usually it can be completed in less than thirty minutes and it involves minimal discomfort for the patient. The laser is attached to the machine that your eye doctor uses to examine your eyes. During the laser procedure, the patient will notice multiple bright flashing lights, and may experience occasional stinging in the eye. Normally the patient does not experience any discomfort.

After the laser treatment, your eye doctor will ask you to stay in the office for approximately one hour so that the eye pressure can be checked. Sometimes, you may be asked to return in twenty-four hours for a repeat pressure check. Usually, you will also be asked to return in one week for a pressure check and assessment of the treatment.

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