YAG Peripheral Iridotomy

About YAG Peripheral Iridotomy

Pupillary block glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma are medical emergencies. Pupillary block is when a relative seal forms between the pupillary portion of the iris and the lens. Angle-closure is when the iris blocks the drainage angle of the eye. Both result in poor drainage of aqueous fluid out of the eye leading to increased intraocular pressure, or IOP. Medical and surgical intervention is immediately needed in order to prevent permanent damage to the vision. Once the eye is stabilized and the cornea is clear, a YAG laser peripheral iridotomy (Yag PI or LPI) should be performed. This creates a tiny opening in the iris, which acts as a pressure relief valve. The flow of fluid through this opening resolves the pupillary block or angle closure and protects your vision from further damage.

Learn More About YAG Peripheral Iridotomy

A YAG PI is recommended in eyes that have the pupil or angle closed and have high IOP. It may also be recommended as a preventative treatment in eyes that have normal eye pressure but show a relative closed-angle and are considered occludable and are at risk for developing angle closure.

A YAG PI is an outpatient procedure done with the patient seated. Topical anesthetic eye drops are used for comfort as a special contact lens is placed on the eye to help direct the laser opening. Patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure, which takes only a few minutes. 

After the procedure,  you can be discharged.

Patients can resume their normal activities immediately after treatment. You may experience a headache during and after the procedure that may last for a few hours. You may also experience light sensitivity for a few days that is easily managed by prescribed steroid eye drops and sunglasses while outdoors during the day.

A YAG PI is commonly performed on patients with narrow and occludable angles, acute angle-closure glaucoma, and pupillary block glaucoma. While the procedure does not restore any sight you may have lost due to elevated IOP, it may save the sight you still have. It may also prevent damage if you are occludable and at risk for developing angle-closure glaucoma.

A YAG laser peripheral iridotomy may prevent a visually devastating angle-closure attack. Consult with Dr. Alabata if you are experiencing a red, painful eye associated with hazy vision, rainbow-colored vision around bright lights, and headaches.

Schedule now by completing this form or calling us at (850) 331-3937 to discuss with Dr. Phil Alabata if you are a candidate for YAG Laser Peripheral Iridotomy. A referral is not required.

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