SLT is a laser treatment where the physician aims a laser beam to treat the ring of tissue called the trabecular meshwork. This is done to improve the flow of fluid through the eye and decrease pressure within
the eye. The physician uses aspecial contact lens on the eye to allow him to view the angle structure of the eye and
the trabecular meshwork while using the laser. Though the trabecular meshwork runsalong the entire circumference of the iris, the treatment may be separated into severalsessions treating only a section at a time.

The SLT does not change the structure of the trabecular meshwork, like other laser treatments. It is believed to work by releasing bio-chemicals into the blood stream, which increase the outflow of aqueous fluid and decrease intra ocular pressure

Advantages

• Helps to protect the optic nerve
• May reduce the number of eye drops or medications used
• Minimally invasive– No incision is made
• Does not cause the formation of scar tissue
• Only topical anesthetic is needed
• Performed in the office
• Minimal post op inflammation
• Normal activities can be resumed immediately
• May be repeated as necessary

Disadvantages

• May require multiple sessions
• Effects may be temporary
• Reduction in pressure may not be enough