A study analyzing the outcomes of repeat selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in treating open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT) has found that most cases respond favorably to the procedure, even when initial response is limited. The research, conducted at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center in China, examined 180 eyes of 105 participants from the Laser in Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension Trial (LiGHT China).

Initial SLT and repeat SLT both significantly reduced intraocular pressure (IOP), with mean reductions of 4.5 mmHg and 3.3 mmHg, respectively. The duration of effect after repeat SLT was notably longer than after the initial procedure, with a median of 1,043 days compared to 419 days (P < .001). While 85% of eyes responded to SLT at least once, 15% were identified as nonresponsive, a group characterized by older age, a higher proportion of female participants, and lower baseline IOP.

The findings, published in JAMA Ophthalmology, suggest that repeat SLT is a viable treatment option for most patients with OAG and OHT, regardless of their initial response. However, the study highlights the importance of identifying patient-specific factors that may influence treatment efficacy, and further research is needed to optimize outcomes for nonresponsive individuals, the study authors concluded. GP