Deep research and expert guides on maintaining your visual health.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty in the Era of OTC Blood Thinners: Hyphema and IOP Spikes Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) and Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT) are laser treatments used to lower eye pressure in glaucoma. SLT uses a short, low-energy laser pulse to target just the pigmented cells of the eye’s drainage mesh (the trabecular meshwork) (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov), whereas ALT (older te...
SLT stands for a laser procedure used to lower the pressure inside the eye by improving drainage of the eye’s natural fluid. It targets specific cells in a drainage area called the trabecular meshwork, using short, gentle laser pulses that encourage the eye to remove fluid more effectively without cutting tissue. The procedure is done in an office or clinic, usually takes only a few minutes, and most people can go home the same day. SLT can reduce or delay the need for daily eye drops, which helps with adherence because many people forget or have trouble using medications. It is commonly used for open-angle glaucoma or when pressure is higher than normal but there is no other damage yet. Possible short-term side effects include mild inflammation or a temporary increase in pressure right after the procedure, so follow-up checks are important. SLT can be repeated in some patients and is often chosen because it avoids the side effects and systemic risks that some medications can cause. Overall, it offers a safe and effective option to help preserve vision by managing eye pressure over time.
