The Procedure of YAG Peripheral Iridotomy: Step-by-Step

YAG Peripheral Iridotomy is a laser technique used to cure or prevent narrow-angle glaucoma by enhancing the fluid outflow inside the eye. Knowing the procedure's step-by-step flow can ease your fears and help you be ready for what's to come.

Preparing for the Procedure

Eye Exam: Your ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye examination before the treatment to ascertain the best course of action and to ensure that YAG Peripheral Iridotomy is required.

Administration of Medication: You can be given eye drops before the operation. These could consist of:

Pilocarpine: To narrow the pupil, which thins the iris and facilitates laser penetration.

Lowering of Pressure Drops: To stop the intraocular pressure (IOP) from increasing after the treatment.

The comfort of the Patient: Usually, in front of the slit-lamp microscope that will be utilised for the treatment, you will be sitting comfortably.

Eye Numbness

Topical Anaesthesia: The ophthalmologist will use numbing eye drops to avoid pain. These drops guarantee that you won't have any pain throughout the laser treatment; however, you may experience some pressure or have a minor feeling.

Making Use of the Lens

Laser Lens Placement: The surface of your eye is covered with a unique contact lens known as a laser lens. This lens keeps your eye still during the process and aids in accurately focusing the laser on the iris.

Considering Comfort: Although the lens may seem a little strange initially, it is necessary for precise laser aiming.

Applying the Laser Therapy

Application of Laser: The YAG laser is a concentrated light beam. Using a laser, the ophthalmologist will make a tiny hole in your iris's periphery, often in the higher region where it is less noticeable.

Many Pulses: To make the hole, the laser may need to pulse many times quickly. During this portion of the process, you can see dazzling flashes of light and hear clicking noises.

Duration: The laser treatment usually takes a few minutes, but follow-up checks and preparation may make the total consultation take longer.

Checking Eye Pressure After Procedure

Instant IOP Measurement: Your intraocular pressure (IOP) will be monitored to ensure it hasn't risen after the laser therapy. Given that an increase in IOP might be a side effect, this is a crucial step.

Extra Eye Drops: Pressure-lowering drops may be used to control intraocular pressure.

Recovery Following Procedure

You will be able to relax and recuperate in the recovery room. Your doctor may monitor you throughout this period to ensure no emerging issues.

Instructions for Discharge: You will be given information on post-operation care, including what to do and what not to do after the treatment before you depart.

After-Procedure Monitoring and Care

Eye Drops: To lessen inflammation and avoid problems, your doctor could prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops. Pay close attention to the dose guidelines.

Vision Changes: Mild blurring or light sensitivity is usual immediately after the treatment. Usually, these symptoms go away in a few hours or a day.

Follow-Up Appointment: A follow-up appointment is usually arranged within a week to check eye pressure and ensure the treatment went well.

Possible Adverse Reactions and When to Get Assistance

Typical side effects include redness, a feeling of something in the eye, and slight pain for some people. These generally go away relatively fast.

Serious Symptoms: Severe discomfort, a noticeable change in vision, or persistent redness in the eyes should all be reported to your doctor immediately since these may be signs of a problem.

In conclusion, a brief and usually well-tolerated operation called YAG Peripheral Iridotomy stops severe eye diseases, including angle-closure glaucoma. You can confidently approach the operation and know what to anticipate before, during, and after your treatment if you understand every

Stage of the process. The secret to good surgery and maintaining your eyesight is to be well-prepared and to follow the aftercare guidelines.

Have questions or want to know if YAG Peripheral Iridotomy is right for you? Click this link to schedule a consultation and get expert guidance on your eye care journey