Treatment
SLT – selective laser trabeculoplasty
A gentle laser treatment to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma.
What is the aim?
SLT lowers intraocular pressure – the most important modifiable risk factor in glaucoma. The aim is to protect the optic nerve in the long term; damage that has already occurred cannot be reversed.
How does it affect aqueous drainage?
Short, very low-energy laser pulses target pigmented cells in the trabecular meshwork – the natural drainage tissue in the angle of the eye. The body responds with a remodelling process that improves the drainage of aqueous humour. Unlike older laser procedures, the tissue is not scarred – hence “selective”.
Who might SLT be suitable for?
Frequently in primary open-angle glaucoma and in ocular hypertension – as a first measure or when drops are not working sufficiently, are poorly tolerated or are regularly forgotten. A visible, open drainage angle is a prerequisite.
How does the treatment work?
As an outpatient and without an incision: anaesthetic eye drops, then you sit at the device just as you would for a normal examination. The treatment takes only a few minutes. Afterwards we check the intraocular pressure; you can usually go home shortly after.
When does SLT take effect?
The effect does not set in immediately – it builds up over weeks and can often only be assessed after around four to eight weeks. We therefore measure the pressure several times during follow-up. If the effect wears off, the treatment can as a rule be repeated.
Important regarding your eye drops
Never stop your pressure-lowering eye drops or change the dose on your own after an SLT. Whether and when an adjustment is possible is something we decide together, based on the measured values.
Risks & limits – said openly
SLT does not work in every patient, and the effect can wear off over the years. Temporary irritation, sensitivity to glare, mild inflammation or a short-term rise in pressure are possible. It does not replace surgery if the pressure remains markedly too high.
We offer this treatment in Stadtmitte, Styrum . Appointments can only be booked at these locations.
Appointment in SLT – selective laser trabeculoplasty