Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
 Laser surgery is an increasingly popular treatment to control eye pressure prior to consideration of glaucoma filtration surgery. Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a relatively new laser treatment for open-angle glaucoma. SLT uses short pulses of low energy laser light to target melanin-containing cells in a network of tiny drainage channels, called the trabecular meshwork. The objective of the surgery is to increase fluid draining out of the eye, reducing the intra-ocular pressure that can cause damage to the optic nerve and loss of vision.
The selective technique is much less traumatic to the eye than Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT), which has been the standard laser procedure. ALT can cause tissue destruction and scarring of healthy cells in the trabecular meshwork structure. SLT reduces intra-ocular pressure without this risk. SLT can be used to effectively treat some patients who could not benefit from ALT. This includes patients who have already been treated with ALT.
This procedure may be used instead of, or in addition to glaucoma medications as a means to control the intraocular eye pressure.
SLT is for those:
- who have been diagnosed with glaucoma
- whose doctor has determined that SLT is appropriate for controlling their intra-ocular pressure
What to expect on procedure day:
 Your treatment will be performed in a specially equipped laser room. It does not require a surgery center. Once you have been checked in and settled comfortably, drops will be used to numb your eye; no injections or needles are used.
Your doctor will hold up a special lens to your eye which allows focus of the laser onto the meshwork drain inside your eye. You may see flashes of bright green or red light. The laser selectively targets melanin-containing cells, resulting in increased fluid outflow. You will not feel any pain during the procedure. It takes 10-20 minutes.
Your eye pressure will be checked again one to two weeks later. If there is any soreness, you may use an eye drop for comfort. The full pressure-lowering effect of this procedure may take up to 12 weeks. Usually, there are no special activity restrictions following this procedure
Realistic expectations:
The effect of the surgery may wear off over time. Serious complications with SLT are extremely rare, but like any surgical procedure, there are some risks. Going to a specialist experienced in SLT can help minimize the risks and increase the chances of success.
If you and your doctor decide that SLT is an option for you, you will be given additional information about the procedure that will allow you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed. Be sure you have all your questions answered to your satisfaction. If you would like more information about this procedure you can make an appointment or contact the office for additional information.
Download the SLT Patient Brochure |
