[Experience in laser treatment of primary glaucoma]

An Interdistrict Laser Center has been functioning in Vladivostok for 10 years. Laser exposure was used in the treatment of 749 patients with primary glaucoma. Yatagan-1, Orion-3001, YAG Pegaus-3002 lasers (Germany) were employed. In 55% cases primary glaucoma was concomitant with essential hypertension, in 12% with diabetes mellitus. Laser iridectomy, laser goniopuncture, laser trabeculoplasty were used. Hypotensive effect lasting for at least 6 months was attained in 69.1% cases. Complications presenting as hemorrhages in the anterior chamber, which spontaneously resolved on day 2 after exposure, were observed in only 4% cases. Laser therapy in patients aged 50 to 70 is the only means of reducing ophthalmic tone and preserving the visual function because of somatic diseases present at this age. Laser treatment of primary glaucoma brings about an appreciable economic effect and creates favorable conditions for subsequent microsurgery.