Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a treatment for open-angle glaucoma. In healthy eyes, fluid (aqueous humour) flows through the pupil and drains away through the trabecular meshwork — the drainage channels where the cornea and iris meet.
If these channels do not work properly, the pressure inside the eye rises. This can damage the optic nerve, causing glaucoma. SLT uses a laser beam to treat the drainage channels, helping them work better so fluid drains more easily and the pressure falls.
During the procedure you will sit with your chin on a laser machine, similar to the microscope used in clinic. A special contact lens is placed on your eye to keep it steady and help focus the laser. You will see bright flashes of light and hear clicking sounds. The treatment usually takes about 15 minutes.
Afterwards your vision may be slightly blurred for a few hours, so you should not drive home. You can otherwise resume normal activities immediately. Anti-inflammatory drops will be given, and your eye pressure will be checked about an hour later before you leave with any prescriptions and a follow-up appointment.