Laser Peripheral Iridotomy
Laser peripheral iridotomy, also known as LPI, is a laser procedure used to lower eye pressure in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Narrow-angle glaucoma is a condition that occurs when the angle between the iris and the cornea in the eye is too small, resulting in a blockage of fluid in the drainage channel of the eye. Using a laser, a small hole is made in the iris to increase the angle between the iris and cornea allowing fluid to drain from the eye.
Laser peripheral iridotomy is an outpatient procedure. Patients are given eye drops to constrict the pupils. Once these have taken effect, an anesthetic is applied to the eye and the laser treatment can begin. The doctor precisely targets a spot in the periphery of the iris and uses laser pulses to create a tiny hole. The procedure is completed in a few minutes and most patients experience little to no discomfort.
After the laser treatment, the patient's intraocular pressure will be monitored several times to ensure the LPI was successful. Patients may experience irritation and blurry vision after the procedure which should disappear within a few days. Topical corticosteroids will need to be applied to the eye for approximately one week to prevent swelling and promote healing.