What is DSLT?
Direct selective laser trabeculoplasty (DSLT) is a quick, gentle laser treatment that lowers eye pressure in open-angle glaucoma. It is performed with Alcon’s Voyager DSLT, one of the newest glaucoma lasers available.
Like traditional selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), DSLT treats the eye’s natural drainage tissue, the trabecular meshwork, so fluid drains more easily and pressure comes down. The difference is how it is delivered. Traditional SLT requires a special lens to be placed against the front of your eye. DSLT does not touch the eye at all: the laser automatically aims and delivers the treatment through the clear edge of the cornea.
What the treatment is like
- It is done in the office, sitting at the laser much like you sit at the microscope during an exam.
- Nothing touches your eye. Numbing drops are used for comfort.
- The laser portion takes only seconds. Most of the visit is preparation and a pressure check afterward.
- Most people go back to normal activities the same day.
Who it helps
DSLT can be a first treatment for newly diagnosed open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, or it can be added for patients whose pressure is not well controlled with drops. Some patients are able to use fewer drops, or stop them, after treatment. The effect can wear off over time, and the treatment can be repeated.
Is DSLT right for me?
Not every type of glaucoma responds to laser trabeculoplasty. Your doctor will examine your drainage angle and optic nerve and talk through whether DSLT, drops, an implant such as iDose TR or a procedure such as the iStent fits you best.