The Effect of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) in Open Angle Glaucoma Patients With Previous 360 Degree Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT) Treatment

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To determine if using SLT is beneficial for advanced glaucoma patients with uncontrolled IOP when used as retreatment in patients whom have had prior 360 degree ALT and who are on maximum tolerated medical therapy (MTMT). Methods: In a prospective, consecutive study, 77 eyes of 64 patients with advanced open angle glaucoma who had uncontrolled IOP on MTMT and who had prior 360 degree ALT treatment received treatment with SLT. Baseline IOP was taken as the mean of the two visits immediately preceeding the laser treatment. Patients’ eyes were treated with 50 spots over 180 degrees of the angle with .7-.8 millijoules using the Lumenis Selecta II laser. Acular was given q.i.d. postoperatively for 1 day. IOP was measured at 3-4 months post laser and compared to baseline. 3 patients were dropped from the study due a change in their glaucoma medication. All other patients had no change in their glaucoma medications during the study. Results: Mean baseline IOP was 16.67 mmHg. At 3-4 months post-laser the mean IOP was 16.54 mmHg (p>.9). There was no statistically significant IOP lowering in this group of patients. Conclusions: SLT is not effective at 3-4 months for retreatment after ALT in advanced glaucoma patients on MTMT.

Keywords: laser