SELECTIVE LASER TRABECULOPLASTY (SLT)

SLT (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty) is a safe and simple in-office laser procedure that reduces eye pressure for most patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It lowers pressure by stimulating the eye´s natural drainage system to increase the outflow of aqueous fluid. SLT may be used as an initial treatment, as an alternative to medications, or in conjunction with medications.

HOW SLT WORKS

The SLT laser uses low power and very short duration pulses of light. SLT’s particular wavelength of light specifically targets pigmented cells (containing melanin) in the trabecular meshwork. The laser energy induces a biological response in the tissue to improve its normal drainage function. As more aqueous fluid leaves the eye, the intraocular pressure is reduced. The SLT laser does not cut, put holes, or create any new openings in the eye, but instead takes advantage of the eye’s existing anatomy to improve its function.

SLT PROCEDURE

The procedure is performed in the office. A drop of anesthetic, an optically clear coupling gel, and a special focusing lens are placed in the eye. The laser light is delivered through a slit lamp microscope, very similar to the one used for your general eye examinations. The treatment takes just a few minutes and it is virtually painless. The vision may remain blurry for a few hours, but will clear readily once the gel has fully washed out of the eye. Anti-inflammatory drops may be used for a few days. There are no activity restrictions. The pressure-lowering effect of the laser will be monitored within a few weeks of the treatment.

ADVANTAGES OF SLT

SLT offers many advantages for the patient with glaucoma or ocular hypertension where intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction is needed. Some of the benefits of SLT include:

• Gentler treatment compared with Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT)
• Brief, in-office procedure with minimal or no discomfort
• Clinical proven to provide long-term eye pressure control
• Can reduce or eliminate the need for medication
  • Increased convenience with a much simpler treatment regimen
  • Reduced cost associated with expensive medications
  • Elimination of medication side effects
• Typically reimbursed by Medicare and private medical insurance
• May be repeatable if additional IOP lowering is desired

WHO CAN BE TREATED?

SLT Therapy is a treatment option for most patients and can be used for most glaucoma related conditions that have an open angle:

• Primary Open Angle Glaucoma
• Ocular Hypertension
• Normal Tension Glaucoma
• Juvenile Glaucoma
• Aphakic Glaucoma
• Pigmentary Glaucoma
• Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma

To learn about SLT as a glaucoma treatment option, click here: SLT