Laser iridotomy

Laser iridotomy is a treatment for narrow-angle glaucoma. A small hole is placed in the iris to create a hole for fluid to drain from the back of the eye to the front of the eye. Without this new channel through the iris, intra-ocular pressure can build rapidly causing damage to the delicate optic nerve and permanent loss of vision. In most patients, the iridotomy is placed in the upper portion of the iris, under the upper eyelid, where it cannot be seen. Generally speaking, this procedure is nearly painless with a very quick recovery time.