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Pushpanjali Eye Care Hospital, Golpark, Kolkata-700029
Pushpanjali Eye Care Hospital, Golpark, Kolkata-700029
By Pushpanjali
04.02.2025
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Welcome to the blog page of Pushpanjali Eye Care, one of the best eye hospital in Kolkata.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide, affecting millions of people. Laser Iridotomy is one of the most effective treatments for certain types of glaucoma, particularly angle-closure glaucoma. At Pushpanjali Eye Care, the best eye hospital in Kolkata, we specialize in advanced glaucoma treatment, ensuring that our patients receive the highest quality care.
Laser Iridotomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat or prevent angle-closure glaucoma. The procedure involves using a laser to create a tiny hole in the iris, allowing intraocular fluid to flow more freely, and reducing intraocular pressure (IOP). This helps prevent or alleviate the damage caused by glaucoma.
Laser Iridotomy is recommended for patients diagnosed with narrow-angle glaucoma, primary angle-closure glaucoma, or those at high risk of developing the condition. It is often advised when the eye’s drainage angle is too narrow, leading to increased eye pressure.
The procedure is generally painless. A topical anesthetic eye drop is used to numb the eye, and while some patients may feel a brief sensation of discomfort or mild stinging, it is usually well tolerated.
The actual laser treatment takes only a few minutes, although the entire process, including preparation and post-treatment observation, may take about an hour.
Like any medical procedure, Laser Iridotomy for Glaucoma has some risks, but they are minimal. Possible side effects include temporary blurred vision, light sensitivity, mild discomfort, or inflammation. Rarely, there may be increased eye pressure, but this is closely monitored by our specialists at Pushpanjali Eye Care, the best eye hospital in Kolkata.
Laser Iridotomy is highly effective in preventing angle-closure glaucoma. In many cases, it significantly lowers the risk of sudden glaucoma attacks and vision loss. However, some patients may still require additional glaucoma treatment, such as medications or further laser procedures.
A sudden increase in intraocular pressure (acute angle-closure crisis) can cause severe pain and vision loss. Laser Iridotomy helps prevent such emergencies.
The procedure is outpatient-based, requiring no stitches, and patients can resume normal activities soon after treatment.
By improving fluid drainage in the eye, Laser Iridotomy reduces the risk of optic nerve damage and permanent vision loss.
While some patients may still need glaucoma treatment with eye drops, many experience a reduced dependency on medications after the procedure.
Also Read: How to Prevent Glaucoma from Worsening?
Laser iridotomy is a vital procedure for managing glaucoma, particularly for patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Here are the main benefits of laser iridotomy for glaucoma patients:
The primary benefit of laser iridotomy is its ability to significantly lower intraocular pressure (IOP). By creating a small opening in the iris, the procedure enhances the drainage of aqueous humor, which helps to alleviate pressure within the eye. This reduction in IOP is crucial for preventing further damage to the optic nerve, which is often affected by glaucoma.
Laser iridotomy plays a critical role in preventing vision loss associated with angle-closure glaucoma. By improving fluid drainage and reducing IOP, the procedure helps preserve existing vision and reduces the risk of irreversible damage to the optic nerve. While it does not restore lost vision, it is effective in preventing further deterioration.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and typically takes only about 5 to 10 minutes. It involves minimal discomfort and does not require general anesthesia, making it a convenient option for patients. Most individuals can return to their normal activities shortly after the procedure.
Recovery from laser iridotomy is generally swift. Patients may experience temporary side effects such as blurred vision or light sensitivity, but these usually resolve within a few days. Follow-up visits are essential to monitor IOP and ensure the success of the procedure.
Laser iridotomy has a low complication rate when performed by experienced ophthalmologists. While there are potential risks, such as transient increases in eye pressure or inflammation, serious complications are rare. This makes it a safe option for many patients.
For individuals at risk of developing angle-closure glaucoma, laser iridotomy serves as a preventive measure. Addressing anatomical issues that could lead to increased IOP, can help avert acute glaucoma attacks before they occur.
Recovery from laser iridotomy is typically swift and straightforward. Here are the key points regarding the recovery process:
Laser iridotomy is generally considered a safe procedure for treating glaucoma, but like any medical intervention, it carries certain risks. Here are the specific risks associated with laser iridotomy:
A temporary rise in eye pressure can occur after the procedure, typically within the first few hours. This is often due to debris released during the laser treatment obstructing the drainage pathways. While this complication is usually transient, it may require monitoring and management with pressure-lowering medications in some cases.
There is a risk that the laser may inadvertently damage the cornea or lens, leading to cloudy vision. Although this is uncommon, it can affect visual clarity post-procedure.
In some instances, the created opening in the iris may close over time, which can lead to a recurrence of symptoms related to glaucoma. The closure rate can vary, with some studies indicating it may occur in up to 20% of cases within six months. If this happens, a repeat procedure may be necessary.
Patients may experience temporary visual disturbances such as flashes of light, double vision, or seeing halos around lights following the procedure. These symptoms are generally short-lived but can be concerning for patients.
Minor bleeding at the site of the iridotomy (hyphema) can occur. This bleeding is usually self-limiting and can be managed with light pressure applied to the eye. However, significant bleeding is rare.
Post-operative inflammation and mild discomfort are common but typically resolve with appropriate care and medication. Patients may also experience light sensitivity for a short period following the procedure.
There is a potential risk of cataract progression after laser iridotomy, particularly in patients who already have or are predisposed to cataracts. This risk may increase over time following the procedure.
Though rare, there is a possibility of infection following laser iridotomy if post-operative care instructions are not followed diligently.
The risk of vision loss after laser iridotomy is extremely low. According to various sources, the likelihood of experiencing significant vision loss or the need for urgent surgical intervention following the procedure is approximately 1 in 5,000 cases.
While major vision loss is rare, some patients may notice temporary changes in their vision after the procedure:
Most visual disturbances tend to resolve within a month after the procedure. However, a small percentage of patients may experience permanent changes in their vision. Research indicates that approximately 11% of patients may notice persistent visual phenomena such as ghosting or shadows.
Yes, laser iridotomy can cause an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) in some patients. This post-treatment rise in IOP is typically acute and transient. Here are the key points regarding this phenomenon:
Several factors can contribute to a rise in IOP following laser iridotomy:
The rise in IOP is thought to result from:
Several factors can increase the risk of intraocular pressure (IOP) spikes after laser iridotomy. Understanding these factors is crucial for managing potential complications effectively. Here are the key risk factors identified:
Patients with a higher baseline IOP before the procedure are at increased risk for post-laser IOP elevation. Studies have shown that for every 1 mmHg increase in baseline IOP, there is a corresponding increase in the risk of elevated IOP after the procedure.
The amount of laser energy used during the procedure, as well as the number of laser pulses applied, directly correlates with the likelihood of IOP spikes. Higher energy levels and more extensive treatment have been associated with a greater risk of transient IOP elevation.
Patients with shallower central anterior chamber depths are more susceptible to increases in IOP following laser iridotomy. This anatomical characteristic can affect fluid dynamics within the eye, leading to higher pressure post-procedure.
Individuals with preexisting glaucoma conditions may experience heightened sensitivity to changes in IOP after laser treatment. The underlying pathology can predispose them to fluctuations in eye pressure.
Patients undergoing treatment for acute angle closure glaucoma are at a higher risk for IOP spikes due to the nature of their condition, which involves obstructed aqueous outflow.
In some cases, excessive release of pigment during the procedure can obstruct the trabecular meshwork, leading to increased resistance to aqueous outflow and subsequent IOP elevation.
Post-operative inflammation or complications such as anterior chamber bleeding (hyphema) can also contribute to increased IOP following laser iridotomy. Inflammatory responses can affect fluid dynamics and drainage pathways.
At Pushpanjali Eye Care, we offer cutting-edge glaucoma treatment, including Laser Iridotomy for Glaucoma, under the guidance of experienced ophthalmologists. Our state-of-the-art facilities, patient-centered approach, and commitment to excellence make us the best eye hospital in Kolkata. If you or a loved one is at risk of glaucoma, early intervention can make all the difference in preserving vision.
For expert consultation and advanced glaucoma treatment, book an appointment with Pushpanjali Eye Care today!
