The safety and effectiveness of optometrist delivered laser peripheral iridotomy.

BACKGROUND

Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) is a commonly performed procedure resulting in a reduction in the risk of progression to Acute Angle Closure and subsequent glaucoma. Whilst demand for LPI has varied over the previous 25 years, non-medical clinicians have been increasingly utilised in the delivery of ophthalmic laser procedures. There is, however, a paucity of safety and effectiveness of optometrist-performed LPI.

METHOD

This was a retrospective study. The success rate was determined by the presence of a patent LPI at the first appointment post-procedure. Adverse events were captured from electronic patient letters from the procedure until the first appointment post-procedure.

RESULTS

Two optometrists performed LPI on 105 eyes. Presence of a patent iridotomy was documented in 93% and 89% for optometrist one and two, respectively (n = 95). Transient adverse events were reported in four patients. The remaining 10 eyes underwent a redo LPI.

CONCLUSION

Optometrists delivered a safe and effective LPI service with low rate of adverse events and high success rates.