Mr Velota Sung FRCS(Ed), FRCOphth, MSc(Warwick)

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)

SLT is a new type of laser treatment targeting the pigment containing cells within the trabecular meshwork, the area that aqueous drain away from the eyes. The laser with special wavelength which only stimulate the melanin containing cells in the trabecular meshwork and cause changes that can increase the outflow capacity of the meshwork and hence reduce the eye pressure.

Commonly asked questions:

How SLT is performed?

SLT is performed in the clinic equiped with the laser. The procedure only takes a few minutes to perform. Prior to the procedure, anesthetic eye drops will be given then a special contact lens will be placed on the surface of the eye. The doctor will look through the microscope and target the laser beam to the trabecular meshwork. Generally, 360 degrees or about 100 laser shots will be delivered in one treatment session per eye.

How effective is SLT treatment?

SLT is very effective in lowering eye pressure comparable to glaucoma eye drops. The response rate is reported to be between 60-90% in the first year and lower the eye pressure by 20-40%. SLT could be performed at any stage of open angle glaucoma but the effectiveness increases if the treatment is performed at the early stage of the disease even before starting of any glaucoma eye drops.

What are the side effects of SLT?

Very few patients experience side effects from SLT treatment. Occasionally patients can experience transient inflammation and increase in eye pressure. Other side effects include transient blurring of vision, headache, corneal abrasion, corneal oedema (swelling), eye pain and conjunctivitis.