As I have explained in the previous articles (Primary angle-closure suspect, acute angle closure & What are the different types of glaucoma?), in angle-closure suspect and angle-closure glaucoma, the angle of the eye is narrow. This leads to a sudden or slow increase in eye pressure (intraocular pressure). To treat that or to prevent that from happening, a small hole is made in the iris which most of the time opens up the angle and relieves the angle closure.
The laser treatment is either given as prophylaxis or as treatment depending on the condition of the eye.
Note: This treatment does not improve vision.
What is done?
- Always remember to accompany someone when you go in for this procedure.
- Before the laser, Pilocarpine eye drops are put in the eyes to make your pupil small and stretch the iris. Sometimes pilocarpine eyedrops cause minor headaches, which is common with the drug.
- Antiglaucoma eye drops are placed before and/or after the procedure to prevent the eye pressure spikes which is a common complication of the procedure (note: you may sometimes still have a pressure spike but that can be managed).
- Topical numbing eye drops are put in the eyes to decrease the discomfort during the procedure.
- After the eye is ready, you will be asked to sit in front of the machine and the laser is given. You will be asked to wait for a while and the intraocular pressure is checked. You would then be prescribed eye drops and asked for a follow-up.
How do you normally feel after laser?
The mild blurring of vision is common which clears in a day or two and even before. There will be redness and sensitivity to light because of inflammation (eye drops are prescribed to address that)
What are the complications?
No procedure is without complications.
- You may have an increase in eye pressure and /or bleeding at the site of the laser which is temporary and can be managed.
- The laser hole may get closed eventually – a repeat procedure may be necessary.
- Very rarely visual symptoms, cataract formation, and other complications may occur.