SLT (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty) in Glaucoma Treatment
SLT is a type of laser treatment used in the management of glaucoma (eye pressure). It is applied to patients whose eye pressure is not excessively high and whose type of glaucoma is suitable for the procedure.
The application is simple and painless, taking about 30–40 seconds per eye. After the procedure, the eyes are not covered, and the patient can resume activities such as driving immediately. The treatment is performed while the patient is seated in an examination chair. SLT carries no risk.
Since it does not cause damage to the intraocular tissue, it can be repeated as needed. The goal is to reduce eye pressure to reasonable levels and decrease the number of eye drops the patient needs. However, its effectiveness is lower in individuals who have previously undergone cataract surgery and in younger patients.
In specific types of glaucoma, such as Pigmentary Glaucoma and Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma, the treatment's effectiveness is significantly higher.
The pressure-reducing effect of SLT occurs by widening the trabecular meshwork (channels in the eye), allowing the excess fluid causing the pressure to exit the eye more efficiently through blood vessels.