Posted by: Aker Kasten Eye Center in Glaucoma, Laser Eye Surgery on May 14, 2015
Lasers have really made their impact on the medical world, especially when it comes to vision and the eyes. Most people know about LASIK, and laser eye surgeries are becoming more and more available and common in the everyday world. However, did you know that there are some laser treatments that you can use to treat glaucoma?
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
SLT users a laser to remove liquid from the eye. The laser is aimed at a very specific part of the eye by using a special microscope. The laser is set to a certain wavelength so that it will only affect that part of the eye that is pigmented. This laser treatment helps keep fluid moving in and out of the eye, which then lowers the pressure inside your eye.
A very fast fix for a fairly serious problem, lasers make it very easy for your eye pressure to be lowered to a controllable level. The procedure only takes a few minutes, although it may take up to several weeks for you to see full results. During that recovery time, you will need to take eye drops to stave off inflammation, as well as any other glaucoma drops or medications your doctor recommends or requires.
Endocyclophotocoagulation (ECP)
Also known as Endolaser, ECP is a gentle surgery that is combined with laser cataract surgery in order to treat glaucoma. Using the same incision as the laser cataract surgery, your doctor will use a probe to investigate the inside of the eye. While using this tiny but sophisticated camera, your doctor will shine a gentle laser on the ciliary processes. These structures control the eye’s fluid levels and production, and the laser therapy will help regulate the fluid and bring the pressure in the eye down.
Similar to SLT, this surgery only takes a few minutes and is almost entirely risk-free. The incision even seals itself after the surgery is over! If you are looking for a treatment that is both highly effective and fast, try Endolaser. Most patients are able to drastically cut back on the glaucoma medications they take, in some cases even eliminating the need for glaucoma medication all together.