Laser iridotomy is an eye surgery that treats angle-closure glaucoma. Angle-closure glaucoma is when the iris blocks fluid (called aqueous) from leaving the front of the eye as it should. Pressure in the eye rises and the optic nerve is damaged. This can cause blindness. Laser iridotomy helps fluid drain properly, lowering the eye pressure.
Laser iridotomy is performed in an outpatient surgery center or ophthalmologist office. A laser is used to create a tiny hole in your iris. This helps the aqueous fluid flow out of the eye. It also helps the iris return to its normal position. The fluid can then move in and out of the eye as it should, lowering pressure.
Risks
- Headache or brow pain
- A sudden increase in eye pressure
- Eye redness, swelling or pain
- Bleeding in the eye
- Blurry vision or seeing streaks in light
- Cataracts
- Need to have laser iridotomy again, or to have additional surgery
For glaucoma it is important to have your eye and vision changes checked regularly.