Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

The laser is a high beam of light aimed at precise areas of the eye to provide effective glaucoma treatment and assist in eye pressure management. 

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) utilizes short pulses of relatively low energy light to target only the melanin-rich cells in the drainage channel of the eye. 

These laser pulses specifically affect these melanin-containing cells while leaving the surrounding structure unaffected.

 The procedure is conducted as an outpatient appointment in our private rooms at Spiteri Eye Care.

Glaucoma treatment may sometimes involve medication to effectively manage eye pressure. 

When medication is insufficient, laser and other surgical procedures can play a crucial role in eye pressure management. One such option is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), which is particularly beneficial for patients with early-stage Open Angle Glaucoma.

Your vision will be checked, and your eye pressure will be measured to assess your condition for effective glaucoma treatment.

 Drops are instilled to cause miosis (small pupil) for Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), and these drops may take a few minutes to take effect. 

You will be seated in front of the laser, and local anaesthetic drops will be applied to numb the surface of your eye during the procedure.

The practitioner will sit opposite you and ask you to place your chin on the chin rest while explaining the procedure for your glaucoma treatment. 

Although the laser light is invisible, a bright light is used to visualize the iris. This Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty employs energy pulses to target the trabecular meshwork, helping to open the drainage angle. 

The gentle laser treatment activates a body response that releases white blood cells, clearing the affected cells and rebuilding the meshwork. 

This process effectively contributes to eye pressure management, resulting in a successful reduction of eye pressures.

You will be given medication to take home with you afterwards, and you will be instructed on their installation for effective eye pressure management.

 Following the Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty procedure, it may take some time for the instilled eye drops to settle, so we recommend arranging for a driver to take you home as part of your glaucoma treatment.

Benefits: 

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) aims to lower raised eye pressures, offering an effective solution for eye pressure management without the side effects or challenges of using glaucoma medication.

This procedure is particularly suitable for patients who are intolerant to conventional glaucoma treatment methods.

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Considered low risk, SLT does have a few possible side effects, which may include:

· A rise in eye pressure  

· Changes in vision, which can appear slightly misty  

However, the vast majority of individuals undergo this procedure without experiencing any issues.

You should continue using your glaucoma treatment medication for both eyes to support effective eye pressure management, unless instructed otherwise. 

You will have a post-operative follow-up appointment 1-2 weeks after your Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty procedure to ensure that your eye has settled down. 

You can resume driving a day after the procedure, provided you feel that your vision is clear.