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Glaucoma Laser

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Abstract

Lasers are frequently used in the management of both open and angle closure glaucoma. Knowledge of potential complications should be shared with the patient in the consent process prior to performing a procedure. In this chapter, we explore some of the more common laser applications, namely, laser trabeculoplasty, laser iridotomies, iridoplasty, and cyclodestructive procedures. Many of these procedures share early complications of postlaser pressure spikes, temporary reduction in vision, and inflammation. In addition, the specific laser therapies also have unique complications including corneal edema and haze following selective laser trabeculoplasty, dysphotopsia related to peripheral iridotomies, and more serious sequelae of phthisis and vision loss following cyclodestructive procedures. This chapter is a review of various laser therapies for glaucoma, their potential complications, risk factors predisposing to certain complications, and suggested management. Identifying those at higher risk of complications and early recognition of complications can usually minimize any long-term negative outcome.

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Correspondence to Jason Cheng .

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Cheng, J., Cabrera, M., Lee, J.W.Y., Buys, Y.M. (2017). Glaucoma Laser. In: Carbonaro, F., Lim, K. (eds) Managing Complications in Glaucoma Surgery. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-49416-6_1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-49416-6_1

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