Glaucoma blog

SLT laser

SLT laser is a form of "cold laser" that does not burn the trabecular meshwork - rather it stimulates it to enhance drainage of fluid out of the eye. The results are modestly impressive - 5 year results indicate a 20-30% drop in eye pressure. It is a treatment that can be repeated, and surgery to control pressure can be delayed or postponed indefinitely as a result.

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Glaucoma news

Memantine is a new drug for glaucoma, that has undergone extensive trials to establish its effectiveness. Disappointingly, it has not demonstrated the benefits expected, and plans to release this medication in the UK are therefore on hold.

News

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Advantages of SLT

Written by Administrator
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
These are described below: Safe: SLT is not associated with systemic side effects or the compliance and cost issues of medications. Selective: SLT utilizes selective photothermolysis to target only specific cells, leaving the surrounding tissue intact. Smart: SLT stimulates the body's natural mechanisms to enhance outflow of the fluid in your eye. Sensible: SLT therapy is reimbursed by the majority of insurance providers, and is a relatively inexpensive treatment compared to surgery.
Last Updated ( Thursday, 15 November 2007 )
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Pros and cons of SLT

Written by Administrator
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
SLT does not rely on medicines, instead, uses an advanced laser system to target only specific cells of the eye—those containing melanin, a natural pigment. This allows for only these cells to be affected, leaving surrounding tissue in tact. As a result, your body's own healing response helps lower the pressure in your eye. There is not really a disadvantage of SLT compared to other available treatments. Mostly drop use and preservative toxicity is minimised as fewer drops are usually required after surgery, and the procedure is free of systemic side effects.
Last Updated ( Thursday, 15 November 2007 )
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How does SLT work?

Written by Administrator
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
SLT works by harnessing laser light to stimulate the body's natural healing response in order to lower your eye pressure. Using a special wavelength and energy, the laser affects only pigmented (melanin containing) cells of your eye. SLT enhances the flow of fluid in the eye, which in turn lowers your eye pressure.
Last Updated ( Sunday, 25 November 2007 )
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How can I tell it has worked?

Written by Administrator
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
You will not be aware of any improvement in comfort following SLT - this would not be a measure of its success. You will require follow up visits with your doctor to monitor the success of the treatment.

Does it work for all glaucoma types?

Written by Administrator
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
While SLT works for most types, it does not work for all. Discuss the most appropriate course of action with your doctor.

Do I use glaucoma drops after?

Written by Administrator
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
Maybe. Each individual is different. Although there is a chance you can eliminate or reduce medications, SLT cannot guarantee this.

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Medication

Medications for glaucoma

Glaucoma medications are constantly improving and new agents combine prosta drugs and beta blockers. This improves 'compliance' ie how well the medication is taken, as many patients forget to take drops.

Iridotomy

Latest news

Laser iridotomy is performed to reduce the risk of or to treat primary angle closure ("narrow angle glaucoma"). This type of glaucoma can be associated with longsightedness, and may run in the family, as with other types of glaucoma. Iridotomy is a safe procedure, and prevent angle closure in most cases, but does not eliminate the risk. Sometimes cataract surgery is preferred as a primary option.

Types

Appointments

There are over a hundred types of glaucoma. Most commonly, in the UK, patients have Primary Open Angle Glaucoma ("POAG"). Most types of glaucoma are treated the same. Some variants progress at different rates, but most types progress slowly but surely (ie lead to visual field loss) without treatment. Another common type is Normal Pressure Glaucoma. This tends to be more slowly progressive. Secondary glaucomas are rare (less than 5%), as is congenital glaucoma.