402: Ophthalmic Laser Workshop

Over the last decade optometric scope expansion to include ophthalmic laser procedures such as YAG capsulotomy, laser peripheral iridotomy, and selective laser trabeculoplasty has occurred in several states and there is active legislation in several other states, including Ohio with S.B. 129. These laser procedures are relatively straight forward and serve different purposes. Selective laser trabeculoplasty is increasingly becoming accepted as a first line treatment for open angle glaucoma. Laser peripheral iridotomy is often performed to either prevent an angle closure episode or following an emergent angle closure event. Capsulotomy, which is a post-cataract extraction complication, can easily be detected and treated by properly trained optometrists.