Variation of techniques on the results of argon laser trabeculoplasty.

Patients with uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma were treated with argon laser to the trabecular meshwork. These patients were divided into six groups. Each group of eyes had a slightly different technique of argon laser therapy. Except for one group, there was an adequate pressure lowering effect at the longest follow-up (-18 to -28%). Since the worst complication of argon laser trabeculoplasty is the immediate elevation in intraocular pressure with subsequent worsening of the field and/or disc, the immediate rise in intraocular pressure was measured and compared for each of the various techniques. In addition comparison was made when treating 180 degrees in one eye and 360 degrees in the other eye of 30 individuals having similar glaucomatous disease bilaterally. Little difference was noted between the two eyes.