Factors affecting the results of argon laser trabeculoplasty in open-angle glaucoma.

Argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) was performed in 232 eyes of 180 patients affected by uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), exfoliation syndrome glaucoma (ESG) or pigment dispersion syndrome glaucoma (PDSG). Mean follow-up was 9 months (3-22). Mean IOP change was -21.6% (+/- 19) from the initial value. The effect of IOP was larger in patients with ESG, PDSG, and in POAG cases with more pigmented trabecular meshwork. No relationship was found between IOP changes and age or refraction of patients; the association with iridoplasty did not influence final results. An Octopus computerized perimeter was used for pre and post-treatment visual field tests. In 113 eyes Octopus exams met the requirements for quantitative analysis. In this group 17% of visual field improved, 64% remained stable and 19% worsened. A good functional response was more frequent among the eyes with less advanced disease.