A New Approach to Glaucoma Treatment With DSLT
Glaucoma treatment continues to advance, giving patients more ways to control eye pressure and protect their vision. Patients receiving glaucoma care at our locations in Boynton Beach and West Palm Beach may have access to Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, or DSLT, when recommended by their ophthalmologist. This treatment is performed through one of our partner locations as part of a coordinated glaucoma care plan.
Why Lowering Eye Pressure Matters
Glaucoma gradually damages the optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain. Elevated pressure inside the eye is a major risk factor for this damage, although glaucoma can also occur when eye pressure is within a range considered normal.
Most forms of glaucoma do not cause noticeable symptoms during their early stages. Therefore, regular comprehensive eye exams are important for detecting the condition before permanent vision loss occurs. Once glaucoma is diagnosed, controlling eye pressure can help slow its progression and preserve the patient’s remaining sight.
Moving Beyond Daily Eye Drops
Prescription eye drops remain an effective glaucoma treatment for many patients. However, they must be administered correctly and used consistently.
Patients may forget doses, experience irritation, have difficulty placing drops in their eyes, or need several medications to reach their target pressure. When appropriate, laser treatment may reduce the burden of daily medication and provide another way to manage eye pressure.
What Is DSLT?
Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty is an automated laser treatment designed to improve fluid drainage from the eye. Better drainage can lower pressure and reduce stress on the optic nerve.
DSLT is based on the same treatment principle as traditional Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty. However, traditional SLT requires the ophthalmologist to place a specialized lens on the eye and manually direct the laser toward its drainage system. DSLT delivers laser energy through the limbus, where the cornea and the white portion of the eye meet, without a device touching the surface of the eye.
The automated system uses advanced imaging and eye tracking technology to identify the treatment area and precisely deliver the laser energy.
Potential Benefits of DSLT
For eligible patients, DSLT may offer several advantages:
- No incisions or stitches
- No contact with the surface of the eye
- Automated laser targeting
- A brief outpatient treatment
- Minimal disruption to normal activities
- Reduced reliance on glaucoma medication for some patients
DSLT may be considered for certain patients with open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. However, treatment results vary, and some patients may still need prescription medication afterward.
Accessing DSLT Through Coordinated Care
If your ophthalmologist determines that DSLT may be appropriate, our team can help coordinate treatment through a partner location where the technology is available. Your glaucoma care can then continue based on your individual treatment plan and the results of the procedure.
This coordinated approach allows eligible patients to access DSLT without implying that the technology is physically available at every office.
Additional Glaucoma Treatment Options
DSLT is one of several treatments that may be used to control glaucoma. Depending on the patient’s condition, an ophthalmologist may recommend prescription eye drops, laser treatment, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery, traditional glaucoma surgery, or a combination of approaches.
MIGS may be considered for eligible patients who are also undergoing cataract surgery. Patients with more complex or advanced glaucoma may require a different treatment to reach their target eye pressure.
Is DSLT Right for You?
Every glaucoma treatment plan begins with a thorough evaluation. Your ophthalmologist will examine your drainage system, optic nerve, eye pressure, peripheral vision, previous treatments, and overall eye health.
Based on these findings, your doctor can determine whether DSLT or another treatment may be appropriate. Taking a proactive approach to glaucoma care can help control eye pressure before additional vision is lost. Call us today to book your exam.
