Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
Laser Treatment for Glaucoma at Hobsons Bay Eye Surgeon
What is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty?
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, or SLT for short, is a specific type of laser procedure that is used to lower the intraocular pressure in the eye. It has been widely used for over two decades and is an effective treatment for certain type of glaucoma.
How does SLT work?
SLT users a low energy ‘cold’ laser to stimulate selective pigment cells in the natural drainage canal in the eye (called the trabecular meshwork). The laser is different to other conventional lasers, as it does not thermally burn tissue, but rather promote the body’s natural cellular activity. The goal of SLT therapy is to reduce the intraocular pressure in the eye.
When is SLT necessary?
SLT is most effective for those diagnosed with ocular hypertension, primary or secondary open angle glaucoma. SLT may be advised for situations where the eye pressure is still elevated despite the use of eye drops or other medications. Patients who have trouble putting in drops or forgetting to use their drops may also be good candidates for the procedure. Your doctor will determine whether you are suitable for the SLT procedure.
How effective is the SLT procedure?
80% patients respond well to the laser procedure, with most candidates having a drop in their eye pressure a few weeks after the laser therapy. The treatment can last several years, but will wear off over time. SLT can be performed again, but may not generally work as well as the very first time.
What can I expect during the SLT procedure?
Your ophthalmologist will instil a numbing drop in your eye and rest a contact lens on the front surface of the eye. This helps focus the laser. You may see a series of bright lights similar to a photographer’s flash. The procedure is usually quick and can take approximately 2-5 minutes. SLT therapy may be done over two separate sessions.
In general, there are no activity restrictions following the laser treatment, although you should have someone drive you home after the procedure. If you have issues after the procedure if is advised to speak to your treating ophthalmologist.
What are the risks of the procedure?
Patients are usually very tolerable of the SLT procedure, and the laser therapy has very small risk profile. The most common side effect can be mild inflammation after the procedure. This is easily treatable with anti-inflammatory drops and rarely causes problems. In a small amount of people, the pressure in the eye can rise after the procedure. This is usually manageable with eye drops and typically lasts less than 24 hours.
Overall, SLT is very safe and has even less side effects compared to traditional glaucoma eye drops.
