Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a laser procedure used when eye pressure is elevated in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It can be used as a first-line treatment or when eye drops are not enough, not well tolerated, or difficult to use consistently. The goal of SLT is to lower intraocular pressure by improving the eye's natural drainage, helping to slow or prevent damage to the optic nerve. How SLT works is by applying low-energy laser spots to the trabecular meshwork, the tissue responsible for draining fluid from the eye. The laser selectively targets pigmented cells and triggers a biological response that improves fluid outflow without causing structural damage. The procedure is done in the office, takes only a few minutes, and usually causes little discomfort. Pressure lowering occurs gradually over weeks, the effect can last several years, and the treatment can often be repeated if needed.