Selective laser trabeculoplasty, or SLT, is a gentle and non-invasive treatment for glaucoma. This quick and simple procedure is an effective option for most glaucoma patients, but is especially suited to patients who cannot tolerate or are unable to self-administer glaucoma medications. Highly effective, SLT is used as a primary treatment for the early stages of open angle glaucoma, and can also be used in combination with drug therapy, or as an alternative therapy when drugs fail. It is also a flexible treatment option, because it can be repeated, if necessary, depending on the individual patient's response.

The SLT technique is not associated with adverse side effects and is a pain-free, outpatient-based procedure performed in your ophthalmologist's office.

How it Works

SLT uses short pulses of low-energy light to target the melanin, or pigment, in specific cells of the affected eye. In response, the body's natural healing mechanisms go to work to rebuild these cells - a process that improves drainage and lowers intraocular pressure. The surrounding, non-pigmented cells - as well as the rest of the eye - are untouched and undamaged.

What to Expect

In 80 percent of patients treated, SLT lowers intraocular pressure by an average of 25 percent. There are no major risks or complications associated with SLT - the worst that can happen is that you do not respond to the treatment.

• Before Treatment

  Prior to treatment, the ophthalmologist conducts a pressure measurement to determine the eye's intraocular pressure. Eye drops are then administered to prepare the eye for treatment and to provide mild anesthesia.

• During Treatment

  During treatment, gentle pulses of light are delivered through a specially designed microscope. Your ophthalmologist will hold a lens to your eye for better viewing, and you will likely hear the laser pulses as short ticking sounds and may see bright flashes of light. The entire procedure will take approximately three to five minutes. When it's complete, your ophthalmologist may treat your eye with anti-inflammatory eye drops.

• After Treatment

  In the majority of patients, there is often an immediate response to SLT - one to three days after the procedure, your intraocular pressure should drop significantly. However, in some patients, SLT treatment may take from weeks to a few months before impacting eye pressure. And of course, your ophthalmologist will want to re-check the treated eye during periodic follow-up visits.

Who will benefit from SLT?

If you fit into any of the following categories, you're a good candidate for SLT:

• If you have primary open angle, pseudoexfoliation, or pigmentary glaucoma. (If you're not sure, ask your ophthalmologist.)
• If you are intolerant of glaucoma medications, or have difficulty taking them as prescribed.
• If you are currently undergoing glaucoma drug therapy and wish to combine it with SLT.
• If it is difficult for you to commit to regular follow-up treatments, due to finances, lack of transportation, or other limitations.
• If you have a history of failed ALT (argon laser trabeculoplasty) treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is SLT?

A: SLT stands for "selective laser trabeculoplasty." This is a safe, gentle and effective laser procedure used to treat glaucoma by reducing the pressure in the eye.

Q: How is SLT performed?

A: SLT is an outpatient procedure. You will sit in a conventional exam chair, where the ophthalmologist will use a slit lamp microscope to examine your eye. Prior to the procedure, the ophthalmologist will administer anesthetic eye drops to numb your eye, and then place a lens on your eye for better viewing. The laser is applied to the edge of your pupil. The entire procedure only takes a few minutes.

Q: Will I feel anything with the laser treatment?

A: The treatment does not cause any pain, though you may experience minor discomfort during treatment. The lens used on your eye may cause some redness.

Q: How often do I need to receive SLT treatments?

A: One application typically lasts for many years. Depending on your individual circumstances and goals, another application may be needed at some point in the future.

Q: How does SLT work?

A: SLT works by using low energy laser light to stimulate the body's own healing response to lower your eye pressure. Using a special wavelength and energy, the laser affects only pigmented cells of your eye. SLT improves the flow of fluid in the eye, which in turn lowers your eye pressure.

Q: Is SLT right for me?

A: Only your ophthalmologist knows what is best for your individual needs. If you think SLT may be the right option for you, simply ask your ophthalmologist to find out more.

Q: Are there other options available?

A: There are other laser, surgical or medical options available. You should talk to your ophthalmologist to find out which approach is best for you.

Q: Does SLT work for all types of glaucoma?

A: There are different types of glaucoma. While SLT works on most, it does not work for all. Your ophthalmologist will know the appropriate course of action.

Q: Will I still need to continue using drugs following the SLT procedure?

A: Maybe. Each individual is different. Although there is a chance you can eliminate or reduce medications, SLT cannot guarantee this.

Q: How long will I have to wait to experience the full treatment effect of the SLT laser?

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