Laser Procedures
There are a range of laser procedures performed at Rockhampton Eye Clinic. These include:
YAG Laser Capsulotomy
At the time of cataract surgery, the new intraocular lens is placed in the capsular bag which is the same structure which supported the old lens. Over time, fine scar tissue can develop on the back surface of this bag which can cause haziness of your vision. Whilst this scarring is not harmful to your eye, it can affect your vision. This condition, called “Posterior Capsular Opacification” can be treated with a simple, in-rooms laser procedure called a laser capsulotomy.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is one way in which we can achieve a lower intraocular pressure. It achieves this by increasing the amount of fluid which drains from inside the eye via the anterior chamber angle.
SLT involves the application of short pulses of low energy laser to the pigmented portion of the drainage angle (the structure via which the fluid drains out of the eye). The pigmented cells selectively take up the laser and this leads to ultrastructural and chemical changes which allow more fluid to drain from the eye.
SLT can be used either independently or in conjunction with topical glaucoma medications in people with open angle glaucoma.
Patients with angle closure glaucoma or a history of inflammation in the eye (uveitis) may not be suitable for SLT.
Prior to the SLT treatment a drop of topical anaesthetic is placed on the eye which is receiving the treatment. A special contact lens is then placed on the eye which allows a clear view of the drainage angle.
The procedure itself then only takes a few minutes. You will hear a beeping sound and may see a bright light as the laser is applied. The procedure itself is generally not painful however you may notice a slight tingling sensation with the laser spot application. Generally, we apply between 50-100 spots depending on the extent of treatment.
You will have your eye pressure checked after the procedure and before you go home. We generally do not commence any additional eye drops however do ask that you remain on any glaucoma medications you are currently taking. You may notice that your vision is slightly blurred for a day or so after the procedure and you may experience light sensitivity. The eye may also be gritty (for which topical lubricating drops can be helpful). You may return to normal activities after the procedure.
Generally we recommend an interval pressure check in one to two weeks after the procedure to check the eye pressure. It takes 4 to 6 weeks however for the full effect of the laser at which time we arrange another visit to assess your progress.
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy
Laser peripheral iridotomy is indicated in patients with closed anterior chamber angles. This procedure involves delivering laser energy to create a small hole in the peripheral iris (the coloured part of the eye). This improves the circulation of the fluid inside the front of the eye (the aqueous humour) and prevents it from building up behind the iris which may obstruct the anterior chamber angle and cause an increase in the pressure inside the eye. This process may occur gradually or sometime suddenly, the latter of which can cause the pressure to suddenly escalate – this is known as an acute angle closure crisis – and can cause significant damage to the optic nerve and loss of vision.
Prior to the laser peripheral iridotomy treatment, a drop of topical anaesthetic is placed on the eye which is receiving the treatment. Another eye drop which works to constrict the pupil (called pilocarpine) is then also applied. A special contact lens is then placed on the eye which allows a clear view of the peripheral iris where the treatment is to be delivered.
The procedure itself then only takes a few minutes. You will hear a beeping sound and may feel the laser as it is applied. A few treatment spots may be required to create an adequate sized iridotomy.
You will have your eye pressure checked after the procedure. We generally advise a short course of topical steroids to assist with the transient inflammation that results from the procedure. You may have a brow ache or headache for a short period after the laser due to the pilocarpine eye drops. You may notice that your eye is sensitive to the light for a few days after the iridotomy. You can return to normal activities after the procedure.
You will be reviewed a few weeks after the procedure to check the intraocular pressure and assess the patency of the iridotomy as well as the appearance of the drainage angle.
Retinal laser
There are various retinal laser procedures performed at Rockhampton Eye Clinic. These include:
Retinal barrier laser: the use of retinal laser to create a protective barrier around a retinal tear. This helps to seal the retina and minimize the chance of a retinal detachment occurring.
Panretinal Photocoagulation: this is performed in conditions such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusions when there has been the development of new and abnormal retinal vessels. The laser reduces the drive for the development of these new vessels and thereby reduces the risk of bleeding.
As with all eye procedures, there are risks associated with ophthalmic lasers and these will be explained at the time of your consultation. If you have any concerns regarding your eye after your procedure we recommend you contact the clinic to discuss your symptoms and arrange review. If you are unable to reach the clinic or one of our doctors, please attend your nearest Emergency Department for review.
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