Combined technique of argon-laser and neodymium-YAG laser photocoagulation for narrow-or closed-angle glaucoma

A combined laser technique was applied in 76 eyes with narrow- or closed-angle glaucoma. In the first act circular Argon-laser iridoplasty was performed, to be followed by peripheral Nd-YAG laser iridotomy. Before the laser application, intraocular pressure was decreased using medicamentous antiglaucoma therapy to 30 mmHg or less. Argon-laser iridoplasty was performed in the peripheral third of the total iris circumference applying cca 20 laser spots. Eight days later, Nd-YAG laser iridotomy was performed at the site of the previous Argon-laser spot. Postoperative intraocular pressure was normal in 64 out of 76 eyes (84.2%) on the last check-up, and the additional antiglaucoma medications was significantly reduced. In a small number of cases i.e. 24 eyes (31.6%), the medical therapy was altogether cancelled. In 12 eyes (15.8%) the laser treatment has failed, and antiglaucoma surgery had to be performed subsequently. The observation period ranged from 4 to 25 months.