Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a laser procedure designed to treat open-angle glaucoma, a condition characterized by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) that can damage the optic nerve. SLT works by applying low levels of laser energy to the trabecular meshwork, the eye’s natural drainage system. This stimulates cellular changes, improving the outflow of fluid from the eye and thereby lowering eye pressure. This treatment aims to manage glaucoma and prevent further vision loss, rather than restoring vision that has already been lost.
Immediate Post-Procedure Experience
Directly following an SLT procedure, patients typically experience a few common sensations. Your vision may be temporarily blurry. Blurring can result from the gel used with the contact lens during the procedure.
You might also notice mild discomfort, a gritty feeling, or increased light sensitivity. These sensations are generally short-lived. Eye pressure is often checked within an hour to ensure it is safe, and additional eye drops may be given to prevent a temporary pressure increase.
Managing Your Recovery at Home
After SLT, mild eye irritation, redness, or a slight sensation of pressure is common for a few days. Temporary vision fluctuations may also occur. Most individuals can resume normal activities quickly, but adhering to post-operative care instructions ensures a smooth recovery.
Your doctor will likely prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops to reduce any inflammation and discomfort, which you should use exactly as directed. It is important to continue using any existing glaucoma medications unless your doctor explicitly tells you to stop or adjust them. If you are using multiple eye drops, allow a few minutes between each application.
Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and rubbing the treated eye for a short period. While there are no strict restrictions on activities like reading or watching TV, your eyes might tire more easily. It is also advisable to avoid dusty or dirty environments to minimize the risk of irritation.
For mild discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can be used. Maintain good eye hygiene; gently clean the area as instructed. Most patients can return to their usual daily routines by the next day.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While SLT is generally safe, be aware of symptoms warranting immediate medical attention. These signs could indicate a serious issue requiring prompt intervention.
You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience sudden, severe eye pain that does not subside or worsens significantly. Any sudden or significant loss of vision, or a marked worsening of your existing vision, also requires urgent evaluation. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, or any discharge (especially yellow or cloudy pus) from the eye.
Other concerning symptoms include a persistent or worsening headache, which could indicate a significant rise in eye pressure. Flashes of light or new, numerous floaters in your vision should also be reported, as these could signal a retinal issue. These symptoms differ from the mild, temporary discomfort expected during normal recovery.
Follow-Up Care and Expected Outcomes
Following SLT, a follow-up appointment is typically scheduled within days to weeks to monitor eye pressure. This initial check ensures immediate stability. Further follow-up visits will be arranged to track your progress over time, often at intervals such as one week, one month, three months, and six months, and then every six months thereafter.
The full pressure-lowering effect is not always immediate; it can take several weeks to stabilize, with some patients seeing full benefit up to two or three months post-procedure. On average, SLT can reduce eye pressure by about 20% to 30% in approximately 80% of patients. The primary goal of SLT is to lower eye pressure to prevent further damage to the optic nerve.
While SLT is an effective management tool, it is not a cure for glaucoma. The pressure-lowering effect typically lasts for several years, with an average benefit of about 2 to 4 years, but this can vary. Some individuals may eventually require additional glaucoma medications or repeat SLT procedures if the effect wears off. Ongoing monitoring of your eye pressure and optic nerve health remains important to manage the condition effectively.