Laser Peripheral Iridotomy
- Feb 23
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI), also called laser iridotomy, is a common outpatient laser procedure used primarily to treat or prevent angle-closure glaucoma (also known as narrow-angle or closed-angle glaucoma).
Why do we perform it?
The main reason is to address or prevent a dangerous buildup of pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure, also called IOP) that can damage the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss.
In a healthy eye, the fluid in the eye is constantly drained away through the pupil and into the angle where the iris meets the cornea. When this angle is small or closes, or if the space between the iris and lens is sealed (i.e. the fluid cannot flow through the pupil), it can cause the IOP to be raised.
How is LPI done?
This is done as a quick outpatient treatment, where a laser is used to create a small hole in the peripheral iris, allow fluid to flow through the iris, with the aim of preventing the eye from building up pressure.
Eye drops may be used to numb the eye and to constrict the pupils in order to expose more of the peripheral iris.
Recovery is usually quick.
Common short-term side effects
MIld eye discomfort or pain
Redness of the eye
Blurred vision
Sensitivity to light
Mild headache
Temporary rise in IOP post-procedure
Other long-standing side effects
Glare and halo
Lines, shadows, or cresent-shaped images in the visual field
Other less common but more serious side effects
Closure of the hole, requiring another laser iridotomy procedure
Persistent high intraocular pressure
Mild inflammation inside the eye
Minor bleeding at the iris, inside the eye
Progression of cataracts
Loss of vision (rare)
Should any symptom persist or worsen after the procedure, you should consult with an eye doctor promptly.
It is generally regarded that the benefits of laser peripheral iridotomy generally outweigh the risks, while Clear Lens Extraction may also be a solution for treating potential angle-closure.
