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An “All-laser” Endothelial Transplant
Published on: July 6, 2015
Corneal endothelial abnormalities after selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT)
Keith Ong1, Leonard Ong, Lillian B Ong
1*Dalcross Adventist Hospital, Royal North Shore Hospital, Ryde Hospital, University of Sydney †Macquarie University Hospital, Dalcross Adventist Hospital, Macquarie University ‡University of NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Journal of Glaucoma
|May 2, 2013
Summary
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) may cause transient dark spots in the corneal endothelium. While generally resolving within a month, caution is advised for compromised corneas, especially with repeated treatments.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Science
- Glaucoma Treatment
Background:
- Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a common glaucoma treatment.
- Transient whitish spots in the corneal endothelium are sometimes observed post-SLT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate corneal endothelial changes following selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT).
Main Methods:
- Corneal specular microscopy was used to examine the endothelium of 142 eyes before and after SLT.
- Eyes with open-angle glaucoma treated within a 9-month period were included.
Main Results:
- Dark spots were observed immediately after SLT in the corneal endothelium.
- Most eyes showed no significant spots or transient spots resolving within one month.
- A small decrease in corneal endothelial cell count was noted but not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Corneal endothelial abnormalities post-SLT appear transient in most cases.
- Compromised corneas or repeated SLT may pose a risk of endothelial damage.
- Further studies are needed; minimizing SLT energy and shots is recommended for now.
