Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)

What is a Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)?
LPI is a brief, in-office laser procedure used to create a small opening in the coloured part of your eye, called the iris.

Why is LPI Recommended?

Your doctor has recommended LPI to:

Prevent angle-closure glaucoma: In some eyes, the iris can block the flow of fluid within the eye, leading to a sudden increase in eye pressure. LPI creates a new pathway for this fluid to drain.
Treat angle-closure glaucoma: If you have already experienced angle-closure, LPI can help to lower the pressure in your eye.

What to Expect

Before the procedure:
- There are no special preparations for your LPI treatment, simply arrive at the office at yourscheduled appointment time.
- Drops to constrict your pupils may be instilled into your eye(s) upon arrival for your appointment. This makes it easier for the laser to create an opening in the iris.
- Anesthetic drops will be instilled in your eye(s) immediately before the procedure to numb the eye.

During the procedure:
- You will sit comfortably.
- A lens will be placed on your eye to reduce movements like blinking.
- The surgeon will then perform the procedure. The LPI treatment is quickly completed. Some patients report mild discomfort during treatment.

After the procedure:
- You may resume your normal daily activities after receiving LPI treatment.
- You may feel a slight headache after undergoing LPI treatment. This will pass within a couple
  of hours.
- The eye may feel irritated, have redness, and suffer from blurry vision for the first few days after
  the LPI treatment.
- You will be prescribed steroid drops after the procedure to alleviate any soreness and prevent
  any inflammation. Please ensure that you pick up and use these drops.
- You will be scheduled for a 4-6 week follow-up with your surgeon after the treatment to
  measure your eye pressure.

Benefits of LPI:

Can prevent a sudden and potentially blinding form of glaucoma.
Can lower eye pressure in eyes with angle-closure.
Is a minimally invasive procedure with a quick recovery.

Risks of LPI:

LPI is generally a safe procedure, but like any medical treatment, it has potential risks, including:

Temporary blurry vision or discomfort.
Inflammation in the eye.
Bleeding in the eye (rare).
Increase in eye pressure (temporary or persistent).
Damage to the cornea (the front surface of the eye) (rare).
Double vision (rare).
The need for further treatment, including more surgery.

Important Notes

You will need someone to drive you home, as your vision may be blurry after the procedure.
Follow your doctor's instructions for any eye drops.
Contact your doctor or proceed to your nearest emergency department if you experience:
- Severe prolonged eye pain, not relieved by Tylenol.
- Sudden vision changes, very blurry vision.

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