Laser Iridotomy: Advanced Treatment of Closed-angle Glaucoma

If you are experiencing symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma, it is important to seek emergency treatment. Without appropriate care, the increased intraocular pressure (IOP) could damage your optic nerve, causing permanent vision loss. Dr. Richard Gordon can treat closed-angle glaucoma with advanced laser iridotomy at his Pomona, NY, practice. This involves using a precise laser to create a tiny opening in the iris, allowing fluid to drain and reducing IOP. Contact our office immediately if you are experiencing the symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma.

Laser iridotomy immediately improves the flow of fluid between the anterior and posterior chambers of the eye.

Are You a Candidate for Laser Iridotomy?

Closed-angle glaucoma is a serious condition that can develop without warning. It occurs when the iris is pressed too far in one direction, completely blocking drainage canals and resulting in high IOP.

Symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma include:

Sudden, intense eye pain
Blurred vision
Halos
Dilated pupils
Headache
Nausea and vomiting

If you are experiencing symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma, it is important to seek emergency treatment.

In some cases, laser iridotomy may be recommended if you simply have narrowed drainage channels, because it can reduce your risk of closed-angle glaucoma in the future. At every routine eye exam, our doctors will examine your drainage channels and measure intraocular pressure. In this way, they can identify urgent conditions such as closed-angle glaucoma and recommend prompt treatment.

What to Expect during the Laser Iridotomy Procedure

Before your treatment, Dr. Gordon will administer eye drops to numb your eyes. Next, he will use a state-of-the-art laser to create a tiny opening at the edge of your iris. This space will allow fluid to flow between the front and back chambers of your eye, decreasing IOP. Creating the opening takes only a matter of seconds. If you develop closed-angle glaucoma in one eye, there is a high chance that the condition will eventually affect the other eye. Therefore, Dr. Gordon will typically perform iridotomy on both eyes at once.

Most patients do not experience major discomfort during treatment. After laser iridotomy, your vision may be a bit blurred for an hour or so. However, recovery is relatively fast and there is virtually no downtime required. Dr. Gordon will prescribe steroid eye drops to use for a few days after your surgery. You will also have a follow-up appointment in one or two weeks to assess your recovery.

Benefits and Risks of Laser Iridotomy

Laser iridotomy can prevent permanent vision loss. The opening created during surgery will typically remain for the rest of your life.

At the same time, laser iridotomy presents minimal risks, especially in comparison to the tremendous benefits of the treatment. Side effects can include temporarily blurred vision, bleeding, and swelling. You may also face a higher risk for increased intraocular pressure, cataracts, and glare. Dr. Gordon can provide ongoing care to monitor your ocular health and look for any complications in the future.

Contact Us for More Information

Contact Ramapo Ophthalmology Associates right away if you are experiencing any symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma. Dr. Gordon can provide the prompt treatment necessary to save your vision.