Argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) is a glaucoma treatment that uses argon laser energy to target the trabecular meshwork, the eye’s drainage tissue. It aims to improve outflow of aqueous humour and lower intraocular pressure.
Procedure
At the slit lamp, a special contact lens is placed on the eye and a series of small laser burns are applied around the drainage angle. The laser spots cause biological changes that enhance fluid outflow over time.
- Typically performed in two half‑angle sessions or one full 360‑degree session
- Topical anaesthetic drops make the procedure comfortable
- Pressure-lowering drops may still be needed afterwards
- Effect can wane over years, and repeatability is limited
Role in Glaucoma Care
ALT has largely been superseded by selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in many centres but remains an option. It is used mainly in open‑angle glaucoma when medications alone are insufficient or poorly tolerated.
- Post-laser pressure spikes and inflammation are possible but usually transient
- Follow-up checks pressure response over weeks to months
- ALT does not cure glaucoma but helps slow progression by lowering pressure
- Suitability depends on angle anatomy and previous treatments
