[Circular, small spot argon laser coagulation of the ciliary body band to lower pressure in open-angle glaucoma]

Approximately 100 argon laser coagulations, 50 microns, 0.1 s, 0.5 to 0.8 W depending on pigmentation, performed on the ciliary band in a circular pattern, cause traction on the scleral spur; this causes the inner wall of Schlemm's Canal to become tensioned, preventing collapse and reducing the outflow resistance from the anterior chamber to Schlemm's canal by widening the trabecular meshwork. When use of this method is indicated the results are good in the vast majority of cases. During a follow-up period of between 5 months and 2 years pressure was lowered on average by 7 mm Hg in 95 out of 101 eyes. In 6 eyes a fistulizing operation was necessary to lower pressure to the required level.