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YAG laser iridotomy is a medical procedure involving a laser to create a small hole in the peripheral iris (the coloured part of the eye). This procedure, known as an “Iridotomy,” is designed to help fluid flow from the front of the iris to the other side, and then exit the eye through the trabecular meshwork, which are drainage channels.
YAG laser iridotomy is often advised for individuals with a narrow anterior chamber angle. A narrow angle may lead to blockage under certain conditions, risking fluid buildup inside the eye. This buildup can cause a sharp increase in eye pressure, leading to “Acute Glaucoma,” a condition that may damage the optic nerve and result in loss of vision.
The laser-created opening significantly reduces this risk by facilitating free fluid movement within the eye.
Detecting Narrow Angles Narrow angles are typically identified during routine eye checks by an optician or an eye specialist. If an optician suspects that the angle at the front of the eye is narrow or there is a risk of angle closure, they may refer you to a specialist.
Symptoms might be absent, though some people report occasional headaches or blurred vision during activities like watching TV in a dark room, reading, or after experiencing emotional stress.
In YAG laser iridotomy the doctor uses the YAG laser to create a small hole in the peripheral part of the iris (the coloured part of the internal eye. This lets fluid flow freely.
The images demonstrate the opening caused by the laser. The animation shows how the YAG laser is precisely focused.
The YAG laser iridotomy procedure is conducted in an outpatient setting. Initially, drops are applied to contract the pupils. In the laser room, patients sit at a device similar to those used for eye exams.
Numbing drops are applied, a contact lens is placed to stabilize the eye, and then the laser is used. The process is brief, involving clicking sounds and possibly bright flashes. Eye pressure might be adjusted with drops before or after the procedure, which is generally painless and effective.
Soon after treatment, patients are free to go with drops as necessary.
Regular follow up checks are undertaken to confirm appropriate healing.
What are the benefits of YAG laser iridotomy?
This laser treatment is typically very successful to help prevent sharp rises in eye pressure for those at risk. It is crucial to understand that while the treatment doesn’t improve or restore vision, it is a preventative measure against sudden glaucoma and potential severe vision loss.
What are the risks of YAG laser iridotomy?
As with all forms of surgical treatments there are risks of unpredictable outcomes and complications as listed below:
-Temporary inflammation in the eye (it’s recommended that all patients use anti-inflammatory drops briefly following the procedure).
-Short-term rise in eye pressure, which can typically be managed with medication.
-Minor bleeding in the front area of the eye following the laser treatment, which is rare and usually resolves within a few days.
-Development of a cataract in the treated eye, which is a rare occurrence.
-Occasionally, the iridotomy may scar over or close, potentially necessitating another laser session.
-Instances of glare or dysphotopsia, where light passing through the new hole causes visual disturbances, though this is also uncommon.
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Please note: Whilst these are the general suitability criteria, individual criteria has to be taken into account for specific patient needs and the appropriate procedure applicable.
We are not a cut-price service because quality does not come by making compromises. However we are competitive and transparent in our pricing structure. We make efforts to ensure that patients are made aware of all price points in advance of any consultations/investigations and procedures, to enable our patients to make an informed choice on how they would like to proceed. Read more on the details of our prices
We work with all insurers. Please refer to the above FAQ on “Pricing” for full details. Please note – even if your insurer is not on the list of companies provided, let us know and we can help to make arrangements. Read more on the insurers we work with – listed at the end of our Pricing section
As a general rule of thumb patients can expect a 95% chance of achieving functional vision to a high standard (corresponding to their best vision potential) from their initial surgery.
As with all forms of surgical treatments there are risks of unpredictable outcomes and complications. 1 to 5% of patients may have some difficulties but in the majority of cases these can be managed. The risk of severe and lasting problems is very low at 1:2500 or less per eye (so both eyes getting affected is very rare indeed).
You will of course be given a full explanation of the specific risks and benefits of the individual procedure applicable to you at the time of the consultation.
Eye doctors are at least five times more likely as the general public to choose vision correction surgery for themselves. The study, featured in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, surveyed 250 surgeons who perform LASIK. Of those, 62.6 percent said they have already undergone LASIK to correct their vision, and 91 percent said they have done it or recommended it for their immediate family members.
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