Laser irodotomy is done in: March 2012
**Core Concept**
Laser iridotomy is a surgical procedure used to create a small hole in the iris, allowing for the drainage of aqueous humor and relieving pressure in the eye. This procedure is typically performed to treat angle-closure glaucoma.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Laser iridotomy works by creating a small opening in the iris, allowing the aqueous humor to flow freely through the pupil and relieving pressure in the eye. This procedure is often performed on patients with angle-closure glaucoma, where the iris is pushed forward, blocking the drainage of aqueous humor. By creating a small hole in the iris, the pressure in the eye can be relieved, and the risk of vision loss can be reduced.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because laser iridotomy is not typically performed for open-angle glaucoma, which is a different type of glaucoma that affects the drainage of aqueous humor in a different way.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because laser trabeculoplasty is a different surgical procedure used to treat glaucoma, where a laser is used to stimulate the trabecular meshwork to improve drainage of aqueous humor.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because laser photocoagulation is a different surgical procedure used to treat retinal diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Laser iridotomy is a quick and relatively painless procedure that can be performed in the office, and it is often used as a first-line treatment for angle-closure glaucoma.
**Correct Answer: C. Laser photocoagulation.**