Huang Ophthalmology Center Inc.

Why do I need the Laser Peripheral Iridotomy?

“PI” Peripheral Iridotomy, is the laser procedure performed in the office to prevent or treat closed angle glaucoma. Much like a clogged sink, angle-closure glaucoma is when the space between the iris (the colored part of the eye) and the cornea (transparent part of the eye) is too narrow.  This causes a buildup of fluid within the eye leading to high eye pressures causing irreversible damage to the optic nerve and possible permanent vision loss.  In this procedure, a tiny pin sized hole, not visible cosmetically, is placed in the peripheral iris attempting to open a “narrow angle” and reduce the risk of a gradual closure of the angle.  You can think of the hole as an “escape” valve, so that the pressure in the front of the eye equalizes the pressure in the back of the eye.  Once a laser iris hole is made, it is open for good and will not close up, therefore this procedure will only be performed once.  Only occasionally will the procedure need to be repeated in order to enlarge the previous hole created by the first procedure.