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Laser Treatment for Eye Pressure - SLT

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Laser treatment for eye pressure, specifically Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), is a minimally invasive procedure used to manage glaucoma. It works by lowering the intraocular pressure (IOP) in the eye, which can help prevent further vision loss. This procedure is often recommended for patients who cannot tolerate glaucoma medications or for whom medication alone has been insufficient.

Laser Treatment for Eye Pressure - SLT

General

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) targets the trabecular meshwork inside the eye, which is the primary drainage route for aqueous humor, the fluid responsible for maintaining eye pressure. By applying low-energy laser pulses to this area, SLT stimulates a biological response that improves the outflow of fluid, thereby reducing intraocular pressure. This outpatient procedure is typically quick, lasting about 10-20 minutes, and is performed under topical anesthesia. It's unique in that it can be repeated if necessary, offering a significant advantage over traditional surgical methods that cannot be performed multiple times due to scarring. SLT offers a safer alternative, with fewer side effects and a shorter recovery period compared to conventional glaucoma surgeries.

Special Details

Who is it for?

  • Patients with open-angle glaucoma whose condition has not adequately been controlled with eye drops.
  • Individuals intolerant to or unwilling to take daily glaucoma medication.
  • Patients seeking a non-invasive alternative to traditional glaucoma surgery.
  • Some cases of secondary glaucoma may also be candidates for SLT.

Recovery Period

  • Procedure time is typically 10-20 minutes.
  • Recovery period is brief, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day.
  • Minor side effects may include mild discomfort or temporary blurriness, resolving within a few hours to days.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

  • Increased eye pressure shortly after the procedure.
  • Inflammation.
  • Mild pain or discomfort.
  • Rarely, SLT can lead to more severe complications such as corneal damage or inflammation inside the eye.

Alternative Treatments

  • Medical therapy with eye drops to lower IOP.
  • Conventional glaucoma surgery such as trabeculectomy for more advanced cases.
  • Minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) for suitable candidates.
  • Laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) for angle-closure glaucoma.

Success Rate

SLT has a success rate of approximately 70-80% in effectively lowering eye pressure, with results often comparable to the best available topical medication for the first several years after treatment.

Procedure step-by-step overivew

  • Initial comprehensive eye exam to assess suitability and eye pressure.
  • Application of topical anesthetic drops to numb the eye.
  • Placement of a special lens on the eye to focus the laser.
  • Delivery of laser energy to the targeted trabecular meshwork.
  • Immediate post-procedure assessment to monitor for complications.
  • Follow-up visits to evaluate the reduction in eye pressure and overall treatment efficacy.

Prices

Why Do Prices Vary?

  • Geographical location of the clinic or hospital.
  • Experience and qualifications of the ophthalmologist performing the procedure.
  • Type of healthcare facility (private vs. public)
  • Additional treatment or follow-up visits required.
  • Turkey
    • $400 - $800
  • Czech Republic
    • $450 - $900
  • Croatia
    • $500 - $1,000
  • Lithuania
    • $500 - $1,000
  • Poland
    • $400 - $850
  • Germany
    • $600 - $1,200
  • Switzerland
    • $700 - $1,400
  • France
    • $650 - $1,300
  • United Kingdom
    • $500 - $1,100
  • United States
    • $1,000 - $2,500
  • Canada
    • $800 - $2,000
  • Australia
    • $600 - $1,200