Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT)

One of the most common causes of blindness is glaucoma, which, in most cases, is caused by excess intraocular pressure that can damage the optic nerve. The pressure is caused when fluids constantly created in the eye can’t drain due to a blockage of a drainage channel known as the trabecular network.

Argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) is used to help clear the trabecular network and relieve intraocular pressure. It is a less invasive alternative to traditional microsurgery and treats the cause of the problem more directly than the other common treatment: eye drops used to reduce fluid production.

Filtration Surgery (Trabeculectomy)

For glaucoma patients who do not respond to laser surgery or eye drops, traditional trabeculoplasty, a microsurgery procedure that creates an alternative to the trabecular network. This procedure creates an internal channel that drains eye fluid into the outer surface of the eye, where it is carried away by blood vessels.

Laser Iridotomy

A less common type of glaucoma, but one which can cause blindness within a few days, occurs because intraocular fluid doesn’t circulate properly between the cornea and the iris, increasing pressure in the rear of the eye and damaging the optic nerve. The treatment for this is laser iridotomy. By using a laser to create a small hole in the iris, the pressure is equalized, relieving the threat to the optic nerve.

Learn more about glaucoma treatment.