A series of acute corneal edema and residual subepithelial haze after bilateral selective laser trabeculoplasty

Abstract

Purpose: To report 3 cases of corneal edema and subepithelial haze soon after bilateral selective laser trabeculoplasty.Methods: Selective laser trabeculoplasty was performed for the treatment of open‐angle glaucoma on 3 female, middle aged patients who subsequently developed corneal stromal haze within 24 to 48 h after the procedure.Results: The patients were treated with topical steroids for several weeks. Due to uncontrolled intraocular pressure, one patient underwent a trabeculectomy. The corneal edema resolved. However, all three patients were left with a hyperopic shift.Conclusions: Corneal edema and subepithelial haze after selective laser trabeculoplasty is an extremely rare event. Although certain causes are postulated to play a role in this complication, it is not yet understood what may predispose a patient to corneal changes as a result of this laser procedure.