What is laser iridotomy?

Laser iridotomy uses a very focused beam of light to create a hole on the outer edge, or rim, of the iris, the colored part of the eye. This opening allows fluid (aqueous humor) to flow between the anterior chamber, the front part of the eye, and the area behind the iris, the posterior chamber. This opening may decrease pressure in the eye and usually prevents sudden buildup of pressure within the eye, which occurs during an episode of acute closed-angle glaucoma.

Some people feel a mild but sharp sensation in the eye during this procedure. But there usually is no pain after laser iridotomy.

Laser iridotomy is mainly used to try to:

• Treat closed-angle glaucoma after the pressure in the affected eye has been reduced with medicine or when medicines fail.
• Prevent closed-angle glaucoma in people who have narrow drainage angles and those people who have had closed-angle glaucoma in their other eye.

Laser iridotomy may prevent further episodes of sudden (acute) closed-angle glaucoma. It also may prevent slow-forming (subacute) closed-angle glaucoma in people who are at risk for the condition.