YAG Laser Iridotomy In Office

YAG Peripheral Iridotomy

In ophthalmology, YAG lasers are used to correct eye problems associated with cataract surgery, glaucoma, and more. YAG stands for yttrium aluminum garnet, the name of the crystalline material that helps power the laser energy.

YAG PI is short for YAG Peripheral Iridotomy, a laser procedure used to treat acute and chronic angle-closure glaucoma also referred to as narrow-angle glaucoma or angle-closure glaucoma.

A Laser Peripheral Iridotomy is a safe, effective procedure to help promote proper drainage of eye fluid and reduce intraocular eye pressure in patients with angle-closure glaucoma.

How does YAG PI treat angle-closure glaucoma?

YAG PI uses advanced laser technology to create a microscopic hole in the iris, the colored part of your eye. The hole opens the drainage angle of the eye, thereby promoting proper drainage and preventing the buildup of fluid. Intraocular eye pressure decreases as a result of the procedure, as well as the risk of vision loss.

YAG laser technology is also used to treat anatomically narrow angles, which are drainage areas inside the eye that close naturally. Anatomically narrow angles are not a result of glaucoma, but they are a risk factor for the disease.

What happens during a YAG PI?

We will apply preparatory eye drops to numb your eyes and ensure your eye pressure doesn’t increase during the procedure. A small lens will be applied to your eye to help direct the laser, which may feel slightly uncomfortable but not painful. The actual application of the laser will take about two minutes per eye.

Is a YAG PI painful?

Some patients feel a prickly sensation from the laser during the procedure, but the sensation is temporary and fades quickly.

What should I expect after the procedure?

We will prescribe steroid eye drops to be used in the treated eye(s). These will help reduce your risk of eye inflammation after the procedure. It’s important not to use the eye drops for longer than the prescribed period, as eye steroids can affect eye pressure levels.

We will check your eye pressure before you’re allowed to leave the office, as well as schedule follow-up visits to check your treatment progress and monitor your eye health. It’s common to experience blurry vision after your procedure, but this will clear up in a matter of hours.

Will a YAG laser iridotomy cure my glaucoma?

At this time, there is no cure for glaucoma. There are, however, common glaucoma treatments such as YAG PI, iStent®, Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, and prescription eye drops that can significantly lower eye pressure and reduce your risk of vision loss.