Long-term efficacy of selective laser trabeculoplasty in patients on prostaglandin therapy

Background: The aim of the study was to analyse the efficacy of selective laser trabeculoplasty in patients on medical therapy and to evaluate a possible influence of prostaglandin therapy on intraocular pressure reduction. Patients and Methods: A retrospective chart review was undertaken of patients with ocular hypertension or open angle glaucoma who underwent selective laser trabeculoplasty between 3/2008 and 12/2010. Data were collected preoperatively, on the day of intervention, 1 day, 1 month and then every 3 months post selective laser trabeculoplasty. The main outcome measure was mean intraocular pressure reduction. Results: 109 eyes (76 on prostaglandins) were included. Mean preoperative intraocular pressure was 22.3 ± 4.5 mmHg (prostaglandin naïve) and 19.2 ± 4.8 mmHg (on prostaglandin) (p = 0.003). Up to 1 year follow-up, intraocular pressure was statistically significantly reduced in both groups (p ≤ 0.019). Eyes with a higher preoperative intraocular pressure had a greater pressure reduction (Spearman rho = 0.387, p = 0.002). Eyes naïve to prostaglandins initially had a greater reduction in intraocular pressure, although after 1 year of follow-up the difference was no longer statistically significant. Conclusions: Selective laser trabeculoplasty significantly reduces intraocular pressure in patients already on medical therapy. A sustained influence of prostaglandin therapy on the efficacy of selective laser trabeculoplasty was not found.