One-year follow-up of laser trabeculoplasty using Q-switched frequency-doubled Nd : YAG laser of 523 nm wavelength

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To investigate clinical efficacy and safety of a new laser treatment of open angle glaucoma that targets pigmented cells in the trabecular meshwork for disruption. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The 16 eyes of chronic open angle glaucoma patients were treated in the method similar to argon laser trabeculoplasty using Q-s witched, frequency-doubled Nd:YAG laser (523 nm). The treatment results wer e followed and analyzed for a one-year period. RESULTS: Mean intraocular pressure reduction of 3.81 mm Hg (15%) at 3 month s, 3.94 mm Hg (16.1%) at 6 months, and 4.93 mm Hg (20.2%) at 12 months from the baseline were obtained. Slightly greater reductions were seen in the r esponder group that consisted of eyes showing 3 mm Hg or greater reduction. Adverse reactions were minimal and not significant. CONCLUSION: This new laser trabeculoplasty has shown reasonable efficacy an d safety on a limited number of eyes over a one year duration.