Long-term visual outcome of transscleral laser cyclotherapy in eyes with ambulatory vision.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the long-term visual acuity (VA) outcome of eyes with ambulatory vision (20/80 or better) that were treated with transscleral laser cyclotherapy.

DESIGN

Observational case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-one eyes of 21 patients who had been treated with laser cyclotherapy and who had been followed up at least 1 year.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted to record the prelaser best-corrected VA and then the last available post laser VA and duration of follow-up. Additional laser or surgical interventions for glaucoma control were also recorded.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Changes in VA from pretreatment to last available examination.

RESULTS

The 21 eyes were followed for a mean of 40.7 months (range, 13-88 months); 17 eyes had a final vision within 1 line of the prelaser VA. One eye improved 3 lines, and 3 eyes deteriorated 3 or more lines.

CONCLUSIONS

Most eyes with 20/80 or better VA maintained close to that acuity after laser cyclotherapy after a mean follow-up of 40.7 months. These good visual results offer support for those who believe that the indications for laser cyclotherapy should not be limited to eyes with poor VA or potential.