Glaucoma: Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

The newest laser surgical option for the treatment of open angle glaucoma is called selective laser trabeculoplasty or SLT. During the SLT procedure, your doctor directs a low frequency laser beam into the trabecular meshwork, which is the primary drainage region of the eye. The SLT laser selectivity treats specific cells, leaving untreated portions of the trabecular meshwork intact. This procedure increases drainage of aqueous fluid out of the eye, lowering pressure inside of the eye.

SLT is typically painless or results in only minor discomfort. After the procedure, the patient is typically treated with eye drops for a couple days. Most patients are scheduled for a return visit within a few weeks to re-evaluate.