Glaucoma

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that cause pressure related damage to the optic nerve. If left untreated, or under-treated, glaucoma can cause blindness.

Detecting and treating glaucoma early is key to protecting vision.  Glaucoma is able to be detected in its early stages through a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Drops to control eye pressure as well as laser treatments are some commonly recommend early in the disease progression. These treatments are often effective in protecting the optic nerve, and therefore preserving long term vision. Eye drops for glaucoma must be prescribed by a physician.

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, or SLT,  has been shown to be effective in early treatment of primary and secondary open-angle glaucoma to aid in lowering eye pressure.  Dr. McConnell offers this low risk, highly effective treatment in the office. Most patients are able to return to work the same day.  

Click here to read more about the LiGHT trial, which is a prospective unmasked, multicenter, randomized controlled study examining the effectiveness of SLT in early glaucoma treatment.

Laser Peripheral Iridotomy is a standard, low risk, first-line treatment in closed-angle glaucoma.  This treatment is also offered by Dr. McConnell in the office and has minimal down time following treatment.  Click here to read more about LPI.