Noninvasive laser therapy may be alternative to MIGS

MILAN — Transscleral micropulse laser therapy may be an effective alternative to minimally invasive glaucoma surgery in the treatment of mild to moderate glaucoma, according to a surgeon here.

“It is a safe, minimally invasive and effective procedure that you can do in your office under topical anesthesia. I believe it has a great future as a treatment,” Rolando Toyos, MD, said at the OSN Italy meeting.

Rolando Toyos

The treatment is performed using the MicroPulse P3 PLT laser (Iridex) and delivers the energy in a train of short, repetitive, low-energy pulses, which allow the tissue to relax and cool down during the rest periods. Two 360° passes are performed for a total of 80 seconds of laser energy.

“There is no cyclodestruction, but photomodulation of the ciliary body. It stimulates the mitochondria in the cells to work better for better flow and better production of fluid,” Toyos said.

In a paper published last year, the initial results of 23 eyes over 1 year were reported, with a 30% reduction in IOP and 45% reduction in medications obtained. No serious adverse events were reported, apart from mild inflammation in some cases, which was treated with small doses of steroids. One year later, results are stable, Toyos said. – by Michela Cimberle

Reference:

Toyos R. PLGS pulsed laser glaucoma therapy: An alternative to MIGS. Presented at: OSN Italy; May 26-27, 2017; Milan.

Disclosure: Toyos reports he is a consultant to Iridex.

Editor's note: This article has been updated for accurate reflection of one of Dr. Toyos' quotes.

OSN Italy Meeting

Noninvasive laser therapy may be alternative to MIGS