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YAG Laser Iridotomy Complications
Eye Conditions | Last Active: Oct 3 12:10pm | Replies (210)Comment receiving replies
Hello.
Ihad narrow angle glaucoma. While in the care if a new opthamologist, he performed YAG laser iridotomy on both eyes and I was left with several visual complications.
These began directly after the procedure. Constant glare and prism images as well as floaters.
He is recommending corneal tattooing- out of state - as my only means for improvement. (colored contacts did not work). This would be out of pocket expenses for me. a minimum of 4 trips to NC for the procedure). I was never told of the possibility of this occurring from laser iridotomy. That is the worst part.
The opthamologist I saight out at Mayo clinic said this happens in approximately 3% of patients. I would not have had the procedure. It was a preventative measure and at my age I would not have risked this. I would have continued getting my pressure checked.
Thank you for sharing your experience and situation. I truly appreciate it.
Replies to "Hello. Ihad narrow angle glaucoma. While in the care if a new opthamologist, he performed YAG..."
Hello, I’m sorry to hear that, but you’re in good company. I had the surgery for preventative closed angle glaucoma four years ago. I, too, am left with severe (to me it’s severe) visual disturbances...glare, prisms. I went for two more opinions and both surgeons said I was high risk, which I do believe. My initial surgeon whom I really Liked, points the laser At the 12 o’clock position. However my research said that pointing the laser at the 3 or 9 o’clock position results in fewer complications. So, I went to a glaucoma surgeon who performed the surgery at the 3 and 9 and I am left with this terrible side affect. Maybe my first doctor was correct. Anyway it’s too late and I’ll never know. The surgeon who performed my laser procedure never told me of the side effect, and he will not listen to me about having this horrific glare since the surgery was done.
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@sarahlinda Well that certainly is getting the short end of the stick! How awful that this unfortunate outcome leaves you with out of pocket cost and physical repercussions. I'm very sorry to hear this. It must be maddening to you.
My mom had closed angle glaucoma and had laser. My Dad has same cornea disease as me and ended up with glaucoma which ended in a recent gel stent being placed to relieve pressure. Its not working and pressures climbing again. It too was preventative. He only has vlsion left in one eye so it is precious to him. It is very taxing putting trust in Drs especially when it involves your eyes.
I've never heard of cornea tattooing. Also, I was never told of possible repercussions with my YAG. My ghostly floaters are nothing compared to what you describe. Have you sought a 2nd or 3rd opinion?
My iris flipped during my cornea transplant and scar tissue was left which is how a neuro opthemologist explained my permanent photophobia. I'm telling you, eyes are no joke and finding a Dr that you feel confident in and has experience, is very important.
I hope for the very best for you and am sending positive thoughts your way. If you dont mind keeping us posted, here on Connect, it would be appreciated. Best of luck. 🍀
Rachel