The Effectiveness of 180 Degree versus 360 Degree SLT at 3 Months

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To compare the efficacy of 180 versus 360 degree selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in lowering intraocular pressure in patients with open angle glaucoma at 3 months. Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of patients with open angle glaucoma and uncontrolled IOP who underwent 180 or 360 degree SLT. Intraocular pressure and number of medications were recorded prior to treatment and at 3 months. Results: 36 eyes of 36 patients were included. 19 eyes received 180 degree and 17 received 360 degree SLT . The mean pre–SLT IOP was 20.6 mm Hg +/– 4.1 mm Hg in the 180 degree group and 21.7 mm Hg +/– 3.2 mm Hg in the 360 degree group. The mean IOP at 3 months post–SLT was 18.8 mm Hg +/–6.9 mm Hg in the 180 degree group and 17.2 mm Hg +/– 5.3 mm Hg in the 360 degree group. The mean change in IOP was 1.7 mm Hg +/– 6.0 mm Hg in the 180 degree group and 4.5 mm Hg +/– 5.1 mm Hg in the 360 degree group (p=0.15). There was no significant difference in medications in either group. Conclusions: With 2.8 mmHg greater reduction in IOP at 3 months, 360 degree SLT is more effective when compared to 180.

Keywords: laser • intraocular pressure • trabecular meshwork