Eye Drops Or Laser Surgery For Glaucoma? Which One Should You Opt For?

Glaucoma, a group of eye disorders damaging the optic nerve, is a leading cause of vision loss. In most cases, it results from fluid buildup in the eye, increasing intraocular pressure (IOP). Primary Open-angle, Closed-angle, Normal-tension, and Congenital are common types of glaucoma.

Eye drops serve as the primary treatment, tailored to the patient’s target IOP and ocular/systemic condition. Available in single or combination formulations, they regulate liquid production and drainage. Compliance and adherence pose challenges, requiring frequent monitoring and potential treatment adjustments. While efficient and non-invasive, eye drops can be costly and challenging to administer, yet they offer flexibility in treatment adjustment.

Laser surgery are mainly of two types : Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) for open-angle and laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) for angle-closure glaucoma. SLT is an outpatient laser procedure designed to selectively target pigmented trabecular meshwork cells within the eye’s angle. By doing so, it improves the outflow of aqueous humor, subsequently reducing intraocular pressure (IOP). LPI creates an alternative pathway for fluid flow by creating a small hole in iris, while SLT improves drainage pore function. Laser surgery is minimally invasive, cost effective, provide stable IOP and good option during pregnancy(when most of the eye drops are unsafe). However, it may take weeks to show effects, and some patients experience temporary pressure spikes post-surgery. While generally safe, SLT may require repeat procedures or add on therapy (eye drops/surgery) later and can have rare side effects, including eye discomfort and inflammation.

In summary, both eye drops and laser surgery offer effective glaucoma management, each with its pros and cons. Eye drops provide simplicity and adjustability but require diligent adherence, while laser surgery offers minimally invasive treatment with potential long-term benefits. The choice between them depends on individual patient factors, treatment goals, and physician recommendations.