Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

(SLT)

 When the natural fluid which fills the front part of the eye cannot drain through the trabecular meshwork, this can result in a build-up of pressure within the eye. The high pressure can damage the optic nerve causing loss of vision and, if very high, pain or discomfort.

To lower the eye pressure, a procedure known as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) may be carried out.

SLT is a laser procedure used to reduce eye  pressure, associated with glaucoma, by changing the fluid outflow through the trabecular meshwork, which is a circular drainage area located around the edge of the iris.

 The type of laser used has minimal heat energy absorption because it is only taken up by selected pigmented tissue in the eye The procedure is used to treat suitable patients and it may be used in an attempt to lower the eye pressure without the need for drops, or to improve the effectiveness of medication.

It has a very low complication rate. The aim of the laser is to lower the eye pressure and hence protect the optic nerve, not improve vision.