The use of YAG cyclophotocoagulation to lower pressure in advanced glaucoma.

YAG cyclophotocoagulation is a non-invasive cyclodestructive procedure which may be used in a graduated dosage as an outpatient procedure in cases of refractory glaucoma. In a group of 60 patients treated there were 37 patients with absolute glaucoma and 23 patients with advanced glaucoma in most of whom drainage operation had failed to control the intraocular pressure (IOP). Following treatment IOP fell in all but one case with absolute glaucoma. In 21 cases with absolute glaucoma it fell to 22 mmHg or less, while in 21 cases with advanced glaucoma it was 22 mmHg or less. Treatment was graduated as mild, moderate or maximal. Reactions were more severe with maximal treatment. In advanced glaucoma mild treatment only was used and this was repeated if necessary. Hypotony only occurred with maximal therapy.