Abstract
Purpose: :
To evaluate the effects of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on intraocular pressure in the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) on maximum medical therapy. In this retrospective chart review, all of the SLT procedures were performed by residents.
Methods: :
29 eyes with POAG on maximum medical therapy were treated with a frequency-doubled, Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (532 nm). A total of 100 spots were placed over 360° of the TM at energy level 0.8 mJ/pulse. No changes were made to the medication pre and post SLT. IOP was obtained via Goldman applanation preoperatively, 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and 12 months after treatment.
Results: :
The mean pretreatment IOP was 18.97 mm Hg (SD 5.49). After 2 weeks of follow-up the IOP was reduced by a mean of 1.86 mm Hg (SD 0.78, p=0.04); after 3 months, IOP was reduced by a mean of 0.97 mm Hg (SD 2.12, p=0.47); after 6 months of follow-up, IOP was reduced by a mean of 0.86 mm Hg (SD 0.78, p=0.50); after 9 months of follow-up, IOP was reduced by a mean of 1.41 mm Hg (SD 1.02, p=0.24); after 12 months of follow-up, IOP was reduced by a mean of 2.48 mm Hg (SD 0.37, p=0.03). 2 weeks and 1 year after treatment were significantly lower than pre-treatment values in both groups (t-test, p < 0.05).
Conclusions: :
SLT in a resident setting showed statistically significant lower IOP 1 year after treatment with no addition of medication for POAG on maximum medical therapy.
Keywords: laser • optic nerve • trabecular meshwork