Long term efficacy of repeat selective laser trabeculoplasty

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Research
• Laser Therapy

Background:

• Open-angle glaucoma management often requires sustained intraocular pressure (IOP) control.
• Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a common treatment for lowering IOP.
• Repeat SLT procedures may be considered for patients needing further IOP reduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy of repeat selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in controlling intraocular pressure (IOP).
• To assess the durability of IOP reduction following repeat SLT in open-angle glaucoma patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of electronic medical records for patients with open-angle glaucoma undergoing repeat SLT.
• Exclusion of eyes with prior argon laser trabeculoplasty or incisional surgery.
• Collection of demographics, laser parameters, medication use, and IOP measurements at baseline and up to 24 months post-procedure.

Main Results:

• Repeat SLT demonstrated statistically significant IOP reductions compared to baseline at all measured time points up to 24 months.
• At 24 months, 29% and 39% of eyes achieved >20% and ≥15% IOP reduction, respectively.
• While effective, repeat SLT showed comparable IOP reduction to initial SLT at most time points, with initial treatment yielding greater reductions at 4, 8, and 12 months.

Conclusions:

• Repeat selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) provides effective IOP lowering for up to 24 months.
• A significant proportion of patients (29-39%) achieved sustained IOP control with repeat SLT.
• Repeat SLT is a viable option for long-term IOP management in select glaucoma patients.