Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty
(SLT)
 What
is SLT?
SLT stands for "Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty".
This is a laser procedure used to treat
glaucoma
by reducing the
pressure in the eye. What are the
advantages of SLT?
There are a few key reasons why SLT may be deemed
beneficial for you:
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 Medicare and many other insurance
providers, which minimizes your out-of-pocket
expenses. 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. How is SLT performed?
SLT is an outpatient procedure. You will sit
in a conventional exam chair, where the doctor will
use a slit lamp to
examine your eye. The same slit lamp contains
the SLT laser. During the procedure, the
doctor will put anesthetic drops in your eye to numb
it, and then place a lens on your eye for better
viewing. The laser is applied to the edge of
your iris. The entire procedure only takes a
few moments. Will I feel anything with the
laser treatment?
Generally, the laser treatment does not cause pain.
However, studies show some patients experience a
sensation during treatment. You may see a
green flash of light, and feel nothing from the
laser. The lens used on your eye may cause
some redness or irritation in rare cases. How
often do I need to receive SLT treatments?
Successes with SLT vary. You will need to
consult your doctor to inquire about follow-up
treatments. How does SLT work?
SLT works by using 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
(melanin containing) cells of your eye. SLT
improves the flow of fluid in the eye, which in turn
lowers your eye pressure. How do I know SLT has
worked?
There is no sensation associated with an SLT
procedure. You will require follow up visits
with your doctor to monitor the success of the
treatment. Is SLT right for me?
Only your doctor knows what is best for your
individual needs. SLT may be the right option
for you, simply ask your doctor to find out more.
Are there other options available?
There are other laser, surgery or medical options
available. You should talk to your doctor to
find out which approach is best for you. Does
SLT work for all types of glaucoma?
There are different types of glaucoma. While
SLT works on most, it does not work for all.
Your doctor will know the appropriate course of
action. Will I still need to continue using my
eyedrops following the SLT procedure?
Because each individual reacts differently to SLT,
your doctor can best answer this question. How
long will I have to wait to experience the full
treatment effect of the SLT laser?
People can respond as soon as an hour after
treatment, or as much as a few months later.
Continued monitoring and follow up will determine
the response of therapy. Ref:
Lumenis |
