YAG Laser Eye Surgery: Uses, Benefits & What to Expect
YAG (yttrium-aluminum-garnet) laser is a solid-state laser used in ophthalmology for several procedures:
- Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy: Treats posterior capsule opacification (PCO) after cataract surgery; creates opening in cloudy capsule → restores vision.
- Peripheral iridotomy: Creates hole in iris for angle-closure glaucoma; improves aqueous outflow.
- Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT): Treats open-angle glaucoma; stimulates trabecular meshwork → lowers IOP. (Note: SLT typically uses frequency-doubled Nd:YAG at 532 nm.)
- Laser vitreolysis: Vaporizes vitreous opacities (floaters) to reduce visual disturbance.
- Retinal tear prophylaxis: Laser retinopexy around tears to prevent detachment.
- Anterior synechialysis: Releases iris adhesions to cornea.
Procedures are outpatient, topical anesthesia, minimal downtime. Risks: transient IOP spike, inflammation, rare retinal detachment, lens pitting. Performed by ophthalmologists with laser training.
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