Corneal decompensation after selective laser trabeculoplasty.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Diseases
• Glaucoma Surgery

Background:

• Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a common procedure for glaucoma management.
• Corneal edema is a rare complication following SLT.
• Previous cases of post-SLT corneal edema resolved with medical management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first known case of persistent corneal edema after SLT.
• To highlight a rare and refractory complication of SLT.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 64-year-old male patient.
• Clinical presentation of decreased vision and diffuse corneal edema post-SLT.
• Documentation of treatment with intensive topical steroids and progression to bullous keratopathy.

Main Results:

• The patient developed persistent corneal edema after SLT.
• Corneal edema advanced to bullous keratopathy despite intensive topical steroid treatment.
• This represents a unique case where medical treatment was ineffective.

Conclusions:

• Persistent corneal edema can occur after SLT, even with aggressive medical therapy.
• This case expands the understanding of potential SLT complications.
• Further investigation into the mechanisms and management of refractory post-SLT corneal edema may be warranted.