Argon And Low Energy Pulsed ND-Y AG Laser Trabeculoplasty:A comparative Clinical Study

Abstract

Argon laser have been used over twenty years for the treatment of trabecular meshwork based on the hypothesis that laser bums directly penetrate the trabecular meshwork and allows the aqueous humor to pass the major site of resistance to outflow. Although Argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) has been frequently applied for glaucoma treatment since 1979, the long term efficacy is not well-defmed. ND-YAG Trabeculopuncture was performed with high energy. This result in a direct communication between the anterior chamber and Schlemm's canal with subsequent decrease in I.O.P, however, obstruction caused by intensive scarring developed rapidly. The therapeutic value of focal destruction of the superficial unresolved trabecular meshwork by ND-YAG laser without thermal effect and damage of the intra­ canalicular tissue has not been evaluated. The aim of the work in this study is to evaluate the clinical value of the conventional ALT and low energy, Q-switched ND-YAG laser trabeculoplasty will be compared.