Laser iris retraction for angle-closure glaucoma after retinal detachment surgery.

Twelve patients with retinal detachment with postoperative angle closure due to ciliary body edema, refractory to topical cycloplegics and corticosteroids, were managed by peripheral iris retraction with argon laser photocoagulation. This gonioscopic procedure results in immediate visualization of angle structures and prompt reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP). Routine tonometry and appropriate gonioscopy are essential to diagnose this form of glaucoma, which does not have a pupillary block component. Timely use of laser iris retraction reduces the risk of chronic glaucoma secondary to synechial closure. In this series, only two of ten patients, not previously known to have glaucoma, require long-term medication to control IOP.