YAG Peripheral Iridectomy - glaucoma...

A Laser Treatment
PI is a time tested LASER TREATMENT for CLOSED ANGLE GLAUCOMA. YAG PI has been proven effective in PROTECTING PATIENTS FROM ANGLE CLOSURE ATTACK. By providing a "RELEASE VALVE", the YAG PI laser can prevent the dreaded and potentially blinding "ANGLE CLOSURE ATTACK".

Other Benefits
In addition to protecting against angle closure attack, YAG PI 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 money.

How Is It Performed?
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 is typically painless. After the procedure, steroid drops are used for one week. There are no limitations on activity after the laser.

After the 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 permanent. The procedure will typically never need to be repeated.

Is It Right For Me?
The laser is typically effective in all people, and because it is so very safe, it makes logical sense to perform this procedure on any patient who is found to be at risk of angle closure glaucoma.

Summary of YAG PI:

• YAG PI Laser is very safe.
• The main goal of the YAG PI is to protect against angle closure attack.
• A second occasional benefit of the YAG PI is a decrease in the intra ocular pressure.
• YAG PI Laser is typically only performed one time.
• The procedure provides protection for the rest of the patients life.
• YAG PI 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.

Glaucoma is a very serious eye condition that can cause blindness. Please keep all of your appointments and follow all instructions from Dr. D. Let's work together to keep your vision good for life.