LPI & SLT Procedures
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) and Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) are advanced laser treatments for managing glaucoma, designed to treat narrow-angle glaucoma and open-angle glaucoma.
These laser procedures offer effective, minimally invasive alternatives to traditional glaucoma surgeries, providing patients with quicker recovery times and long-term glaucoma management. Additionally, they present a more comfortable option for controlling intraocular pressure.
What You Need to Know
Dr. Carlos Montoya MD and the team at St. Lucia Eye Center specialize in personalized glaucoma care, offering the latest laser procedures to help patients maintain healthy vision.
St. Lucia Eye Center Provides Cutting-Edge Laser Treatments, to Effectively Manage Glaucoma and Preserve Vision
Benefits
- Minimally invasive approach
- Reduced recovery time
- Safer than traditional glaucoma surgery
- Reduces intraocular pressure without surgery
- Long-term treatment option
What are LPI & SLT?
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) and Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) are advanced procedures that treat different types of glaucoma. Specifically, LPI is used for narrow-angle glaucoma, while SLT is designed for open-angle glaucoma. As a result, both procedures provide effective treatment tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
Symptoms
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Sudden loss of peripheral vision
- Difficulty seeing in low light
- Eye pain in advanced cases
Glaucoma often remains symptom-free in its early stages, making regular eye exams essential for detecting the condition early and preventing further damage.
Symptoms
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Sudden loss of peripheral vision
- Difficulty seeing in low light
- Eye pain in advanced cases
Glaucoma often remains symptom-free in its early stages, making regular eye exams essential for detecting the condition early and preventing further damage.
Causes of Glaucoma
Elevated Intraocular Pressure
A buildup of fluid in the eye raises pressure, which can ultimately damage the optic nerve.
Poor Drainage of Eye Fluid
Issues with the eye's drainage system can lead to fluid buildup, resulting in increased pressure.
Age
The risk of developing glaucoma increases with age, particularly after 60.
Family History
Having a family member with glaucoma increases the risk of developing the condition.
High Blood Pressure
Chronic hypertension can contribute to glaucoma due to reduced blood flow to the optic nerve.
Eye Injury
Previous eye trauma can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.
We Believe That Everyone Deserves to Enjoy Life With Clear Vision
If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma, explore the benefits of LPI and SLT laser procedures. Dr. Montoya and his team at St. Lucia Eye Center offer personalized care to help you manage your condition effectively. Schedule a consultation today!
How is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose glaucoma through eye exams, including measuring eye pressure, conducting visual field tests, and imaging the optic nerve. Based on the diagnosis, they may recommend LPI or SLT as treatment options to lower intraocular pressure, tailored to the type of glaucoma and the patient's specific needs.
Tonometry (Eye Pressure Test)
It measures the pressure inside the eye, which helps in detecting glaucoma.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
It is a non-invasive imaging technique that delivers detailed images of the retina and optic nerve.
Visual Field Test
The visual field test helps measure peripheral vision, which glaucoma can affect over time.
Early detection is crucial for effective management. As a result, both LPI and SLT offer safe, minimally invasive options to reduce intraocular pressure and manage glaucoma symptoms.
When Do You Need LPI or LST?
If doctors diagnose you with narrow-angle or open-angle glaucoma, they can use LPI and SLT to effectively lower intraocular pressure, preserve vision, and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. As a result, these treatments help manage the condition and protect your eye health.
Are you a Candidate?
- Patients diagnosed with narrow-angle or open-angle glaucoma
- Those seeking a minimally invasive alternative to traditional glaucoma surgery
- Patients with mild to moderate glaucoma who need to manage intraocular pressure effectively
Timing
Early detection, improves effective laser procedures like LPI and SLT results. Therefore, it is essential for preserving long-term eye health.
Driving Requirements
Glaucoma can impair peripheral vision, making driving unsafe if left untreated. However, regular eye exams and treatments like LPI and SLT can help preserve vision and maintain safety.
Scheduling
Both procedures are typically performed in an outpatient setting, requiring minimal downtime, allowing patients to return to normal activities soon after the procedure.
Why choose LPI and SLT for glaucoma?
Laser Treatment Advantages
LPI and SLT are effective, minimally invasive alternatives to traditional glaucoma surgery, offering quicker recovery times and fewer complications. As a result, these procedures can significantly improve the quality of life for glaucoma patients.
Minimally Invasive
LPI and SLT use laser technology, making them safer and less invasive than traditional surgeries.
Quick Recovery
These laser procedures require minimal downtime, allowing patients to return to daily activities shortly after the treatment.
Long-term Glaucoma Management
LPI and SLT offer effective, long-term solutions for managing glaucoma and preventing vision loss, all while avoiding the need for invasive surgery.