Tuesday, December 3, 2013

YAG PI for Narrow Angle Glaucoma

“A YAG PI is the abbreviated name for a YAG Laser Peripheral Iridotomy procedure we use to prevent or treat narrow angle glaucoma,” explained eye surgeon Andreas Wolter, M.D. of Seeta Eye Centers serving the Hudson valley with offices in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York. This type of laser eye surgery procedure uses the YAG Laser to create a small opening in the Iris-the colored part of your eye-so that fluid can properly drain from the eye in order to be absorbed by surrounding eye tissue.  The eye continuously produces fluid in order to maintain healthy pressure in the eye. Old fluid drains through the Trabecular Meshwork as new fluid is made. For some patients, this drainage system can become blocked, leading to a rise in Intraocular Pressure or IOP.  If left untreated the increased pressure can cause permanent vision loss.  The YAG Laser is used to precisely create the tiny opening in the Iris which functions as a "back up drain" in the event of a blockage.  The microscopic opening is usually made in the Iris under the upper eyelid and is not even visible to the casual observer. The opening itself is called a Peripheral Iridotomy and is less than 1mm in diameter. This tiny hole helps maintain a normal flow of fluid through the eye thus preventing visual loss due to a rise in Intraocular Pressure.

At Seeta Eye Centers a YAG PI procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes. We will numb the eye with anesthetic eye drops so you are comfortable. Dilation is not necessary. When a Peripheral Iridotomy (PI) is indicated for both eyes, the procedures are usually done at least a week apart. Prescription steroid eye drops are required for five to seven days following the procedure.  Patient recovery is very quick; generally 2-3 days, although some sensitivity to light can be present for up to a week after treatment. 

If you have questions about a YAG PI should feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination at 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, 969 Main Street, Cecilwood Health Center, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512.

No comments:

Post a Comment