Transscleral Diode Laser Cyclophotocoagulation for the Treatment of Refractory Glaucoma

Abstract

Purpose: To study the efficacy and safety of diode laser cycloablation to achieve adequate IOP reduction and a comfortable eye.

Material and Methods: The study was conducted at the glaucoma unit of LRBT eye hospital Lahore. 102 eyes of 88 patients treated between August 2004 and January 2006 with a minimum follow up of 6 months were included in the study.

Results: The mean pre treatment IOP of 102 eyes (of 88 patients) was 41.79±9.50 mmHg. Mean IOP at 1, 3 and 6 months after treatment was 16.65±9.71 mmHg, 16.5±9.52 mmHg and 16.18±8.21 mmHg respectively. Complications encountered included uveitis, hyphema, hypotony and neurotrophic ulcer.

Conclusion: Transscleral diode laser cycloablation is highly effective in lowering intraocular pressure. High success and low complication rate combined with portability, durability and easy to learn technique makes diode laser cycloablation the treatment of choice for refractory and complex glaucoma.