Iridoplasty

An Overview
Iridoplasty is a time tested LASER TREATMENT for CLOSED ANGLE GLAUCOMA AND PLATEAU IRIS. By opening the drainage area in the eye, this procedure improves drainage of fluid in the eye and thus can help prevent the potentially blinding "ANGLE CLOSURE ATTACK".

In addition to protecting against angle closure attack, iridoplasty will occasionally result in a decreased intra ocular pressure. This is considered a secondary benefit and is not seen in all cases. If the laser decreases the patient's intra ocular pressure, the drops that would otherwise be needed to control the intra ocular pressure can be decreased or possibly stopped. This saves the patient time and money.

The laser is performed at SEECA in an exam room using a modified slit lamp (the piece of equipment Dr. D uses to exam the eye on each visit.) The procedure takes about 10 minutes and may be associated with slight discomfort but no severe pain. After the procedure, steroid drops are used for one week. There are no limitations on activity after the laser procedure.

One week after the procedure, we re-check the eye and the intra ocular pressure. The pressure may not change after the procedure but the protection from Angle Closure Attack is the primary goal of this procedure.

The laser can provide protection from angle closure attack in selected cases of narrow angle glaucoma and Iris Plateau Syndrome: therefore, it makes logical sense to perform this procedure on certain "at risk" patients

Summary of Iridoplasty:

• Iridoplasty laser is relatively safe.
• The main goal of iridoplasty is to help protect against angle closure attack.
• A second occasional benefit of iridoplasty is a decrease in the intra ocular pressure.
• Iridoplasty laser is typically performed in conjunction with YAG PI.
• Iridoplasty laser is performed in the office without dilation and the person can drive themselves home after the procedure.
• There are no limitations on activity after the procedure.
• A steroid drop is used for one week to help with the healing.