Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) reduces IOP in open-angle glaucoma by:

• A Selectively targeting melanin-containing trabecular meshwork cells using Q-switched Nd:YAG 532 nm laser to stimulate biological remodeling and improve outflow ✓
• B Creating thermal coagulation burns that contract the trabecular meshwork increasing conventional outflow
• C Destroying ciliary body epithelium to reduce aqueous humor secretion
• D Creating transscleral filtration channels (cyclodialysis) to increase uveoscleral outflow

Explanation

SLT uses a Q-switched frequency-doubled Nd:YAG 532 nm laser to selectively target melanin-containing cells of the trabecular meshwork. Unlike argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT), SLT does not cause coagulative thermal damage to adjacent cells; instead, it induces a macrophage-mediated biological response that removes extracellular matrix debris from trabecular spaces, improving conventional aqueous outflow. SLT is repeatable because it does not cause scarring.

Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.