Choroidal detachment and hypotony following selective laser trabeculoplasty: a case report

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is relatively safe and effective in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP). However, although rare, complications can occur after SLT. This report describes a patient with choroidal detachment due to hypotony following SLT without anterior chamber (AC) inflammation.

A 67-year-old man was referred for elevated IOP in his left eye with advanced glaucomatous visual field loss. He had previously been diagnosed with idiopathic uveitic glaucoma in the left eye, for which he underwent laser iridotomy, trabeculectomy, and cataract surgery. At the first visit, the IOP of his left eye measured by Goldmann tonometry was 28 mmHg despite maximally tolerated medical treatment. SLT was performed in his left eye, resulting in an IOP of 7 mmHg 7 days later. At 3 weeks post-procedure, the patient experienced ocular pain and decreased visual acuity in his left eye. Slit-lamp examination revealed deep anterior chamber depth and no inflammation reaction, but the IOP in his left eye was 4 mmHg, and both fundus and B-scan ultrasonography showed serous choroidal detachment. All anti-glaucoma agents were stopped, and the patient was started on treatment with oral prednisolone and cyclopentolate eye drops. Three weeks later, choroidal detachment had resolved and the IOP in his left eye had stabilized at 8 mmHg. Follow-up 3 months later showed that the IOP in his left eye remained stable.

Choroidal detachment-related hypotony is a rare complication of SLT. This possible complication following SLT should be informed to the patients and considered when performing the procedure.