Selective laser trabeculoplasty: Does energy dosage predict response?

BACKGROUND: Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a widely used treatment for open angle glaucoma, producing sustained reductions of intraocular pressure (IOP). The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term relationship between SLT energy dosage and IOP reduction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review was performed for patients receiving primary SLT therapy, with inclusion of subjects treated with 360° of SLT. Energy settings were collected upon treatment and IOP was collected at baseline up to 36 months. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to determine whether there was a significant correlation between SLT energy and IOP reduction at all time points. Kaplan-Meier analysis with log-rank test was performed to determine the differences in IOP reduction ≥20% from baseline among those treated with low (<85 mJ), medium (85-105 mJ), and high (>105 mJ) energy SLT. RESULTS: A total of 104 eyes (75 patients) were included. The mean total SLT energy was 93.73 mJ (standard deviation (SD) = 21.83 mJ, range: 34.4-122 mJ). A significant positive correlation (P ≤ 0.05) between the amount of energy delivered and IOP reduction was found at all time points. Log-rank test showed a significant difference in IOP reduction ≥20% from baseline between the three energy groups, with low energy patients experiencing failure at an earlier time (P = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Within the range of total energy examined, there is a positive correlation between total energy used and amount of pressure reduction achieved at up to 3 years of follow-up. This may be useful in determining the optimal energy dosage for maximum effect for patients receiving SLT.