Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
What is selective laser trabeculoplasty?
SLT is a highly precise and gentle laser therapy which triggers a natural healing response in the eye to reduce intraocular pressure. SLT is a non-surgical treatment and is performed in-clinic at EyeHub.
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) treatment
SLT is a highly precise and gentle laser therapy which triggers a natural healing response in the eye by draining fluid to reduce intraocular pressure. SLT is a non-surgical treatment with few side-effects and is performed in-clinic at EyeHub by lead ophthalmologist, Dr Sonia Moorthy.
If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma or are at risk of developing the condition, we invite you to book an appointment at EyeHub today. We will be happy to discuss your treatment with you and answer any questions you may have.
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The SLT procedure is performed in-clinic by Dr Sonia Moorthy
What to expect from the SLT procedure
During your procedure, a pressure lowering and numbing drop is applied to the eye. A lens is placed on the eye to keep it steady and assist in the laser delivery. Laser energy is then applied in a rapid succession, treating up to 360 degrees of the drainage angle of the eye.
This results in an inflammation response, assisting fluid outflow and reducing eye pressure. By the end of the procedure, patients sometimes experience discomfort, but this usually settles within the day.
The entire procedure usually takes around 15 minutes, and the effects are generally long-lasting. Some patients may need to undergo multiple treatments to maintain their results. Overall, this procedure is relatively safe and effective, and it can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. More information about after-care and potential risks can be found here.
Watch VideoSelective laser trabeculoplasty on the Sunshine Coast
Here at EyeHub, we understand how important your vision is to you. That is why we use state-of-the-art equipment to give you the most effective treatment possible.
Lead ophthalmologist, Dr Sonia Moorthy, has years of experience in laser eye treatments and procedures—so you can rest assured that you are in good hands for glaucoma treatment.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to your questions about selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) treatment
What is SLT, and how does it work?
SLT is a laser procedure used to treat glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure (IOP). It targets specific pigmented cells in the eye’s trabecular meshwork, stimulating natural drainage and improving fluid outflow to lower IOP.
Who is a good candidate for SLT?
SLT is suitable for individuals with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who need better IOP control. It is often considered when medications are ineffective, cause side effects, or are not ideal for the patient.
What results can I expect from SLT?
The results of SLT treatment are usually seen within three months, and these results typically last for up to three years. In some cases, patients may not see a response to treatment until six months. For these patients, it is important to continue to use the prescribed eye drops and to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
Up to 26% of patients may fail to show a response to SLT treatment, but most of these patients will respond to additional treatment.
What are the potential benefits and risks of SLT procedures?
Benefits include:
- non-invasiveness
- quick recovery
- the potential to reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma medications.
Risks are minimal, complications of selective laser trabeculoplasty treatment include:
- Mild discomfort
- Elevated eye pressure
- Temporary inflammation of the coloured area of the eye (iritis)
Rare complications include:
- Fluid build-up within the macula (macular oedema)
- Bleed in the eye (hyphema)
- Clouding of the window of the eye (corneal oedema)
How effective is SLT, and how long do the results last?
SLT effectively lowers IOP in about 75-85% of cases, with results lasting one to five years or longer. The procedure can be repeated if necessary, but its effectiveness may diminish with each subsequent treatment.
