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| If eyedrops are not an option, or are no longer doing their job effectively, your doctor may consider a laser procedure to lower the pressure in your eyes. There are a few types of laser treatment for glaucoma; your doctor will discuss which is best for you. |
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Argon Laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) is used to treat chronic open angle glaucoma. Using a special mirrored lens placed on the eye, the laser beam is directed at the spongy tissue (trabecular meshwork) right behind the iris. The laser opens the drainage canal to lower the intra-ocular pressure.
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The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes, is done right at Glaucoma Consultants Northwest, and is relatively painless.
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| A newer form of laser treatment is also available for open angle glaucoma. It is called SLT, for Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty.
The trabecular meshwork is the tissue in the outflow pathway of the eye that is treated in SLT. Some trabecular meshwork cells contain pigment. These cells are specifically targeted by the short laser energy pulses of the Selectra laser. Nonpigmented cells, which are most of the meshwork, are not affected by the laser energy. The targeted cells release chemical messengers that stimulate cells called macrophages to "clean up" the meshwork. This results in increased fluid flow out of the eye and lower pressure.
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| A peripheral iridotomy is used to treat narrow angle glaucoma. The laser is used to create a hole in the iris to relieve the pressure in the eye. The hole is usually too small to be noticed by the naked eye, and is usually positioned so the upper lid conceals it. |
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Again, the procedure takes about 10-15 minutes, is performed right at Glaucoma Consultants Northwest, and is relatively painless.
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As with any serious medical condition, the most important part of treatment is you, the patient. It is crucial that you follow all of your eye care practitioner's instructions closely.
Use your prescribed drops as scheduled, don't skip doses, and never hesitate to ask questions if you aren't sure what to do.
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