Clinical Applications of SLT

Selective Photoregeneration is an unprecedented option for lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) by activating a cellular level response that results in restored function of the trabecular meshwork. Highly effective, SLT is used as a primary treatment option for early stages of open angle glaucoma, and can be used in combination with drug therapy or as an alternative therapy when drugs fail.  It is also a flexible treatment option, given that it can be repeatedl if necessary, depending on the individual patient's response.

SLT and Open-Angle Glaucoma (OAG)

SLT is a non-thermal treatment which uses short pulses of relatively low energy 532 nm light to target and irradiate only the melanin-rich cells in the TM. The laser pulses affect only these melanin-containing cells, and the surrounding structure of the TM is unaffected.

• During the procedure approximately 50 confluent spots are applied along the meshwork in order to treat a 180° angle.
• This gentle laser treatment induces an automatic response from the body in which macrophages are released to clear the affected cells and rebuild the meshwork so that it again functions effectively, thus reducing IOP.

SLT effectively lowers elevated IOP without the side effects and compliance issues associated with drug therapy. SLT is particularly appropriate for individuals who cannot correctly administer, or are intolerant to, glaucoma medications, and can also be used in conjunction with medication to enhance the overall IOP-lowering effect.

SLT vs. ALT

The SLT technique is much less traumatic to the eye than ALT and retains the therapeutic benefits of laser treatment without causing collateral damage to the TM structure - the short pulse duration of SLT is below the thermal relaxation time of the TM tissue and thereby eliminates the incidence of thermal damage. It has been clinically proven that SLT is as effective as ALT in lowering IOP, and has the additional benefit of enabling re-treatment if required.