YAG capsulotomy is generally not suitable when active inflammation is present inside the eye.
Why active inflammation is a concern
The laser can worsen inflammatory problems.
- Higher risk of painful flare‑ups and macular oedema
- Greater chance of pressure spikes and synechiae formation
- Difficulty distinguishing post‑laser changes from underlying uveitis
- Reduced ability to predict visual benefit while inflammation dominates
- Potential to destabilise previously controlled disease
Preferred approach
Inflammation should be controlled first.
- Treating uveitis or other inflammatory causes until the eye is quiet
- Reassessing symptoms once inflammation settles
- Using peri‑procedural steroid or NSAID cover when YAG is later performed
- Scheduling more frequent follow-ups after the laser in previously inflamed eyes
- Involving a uveitis or medical retina specialist in complex cases
