One-quadrant argon laser trabeculoplasty and its indication.

Argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) with 25 burn spots over the inferotemporal quadrant of the angle circumference was carried out in 71 eyes of 55 patients with open-angle glaucoma where maximum tolerable medication failed to control the intraocular pressure (IOP). Eighteen eyes underwent a second treatment, over the inferonasal quadrant. The overall success rate of the postoperative IOP control below 20 mmHg with continued medication was analyzed by means of a life-table method. It was 68 +/- 8% after 15 months. One-quadrant ALT gave approximately the same IOP control rate with less complications when compared to the results of the standard 180-degree ALT.