Course: Sound Optometry: Episode 34 - YAG and SLT: Optometrist-delivered laser treatments

Section

General

Domains: Clinical practice, Communication

No CPD Points

Welcome to Docet’s podcast Sound Optometry, hosted by Michelle Hanratty, an IP optometrist with 20 years’ experience on the high street and in hospital. Each month, with case studies and in-depth conversations, we will be exploring topics that matter the most to you as optometrists and are relevant for everyday practice.

Episode 34 - YAG and SLT: Optometrist-delivered laser treatments

Optometrists are now taking on more advanced practitioner roles and delivering laser treatments for posterior capsular opacification (PCO) and for intraocular pressure control in patients with ocular hypertension or glaucoma.

This podcast provides a fly on the wall account of a typical YAG laser procedure and provides optometrists with an insight into what is involved in the consultation and assessment of a patient prior to undergoing a YAG treatment.

Podcast host Michelle Hanratty and specialist optometrists Steven Burge and Don Williams reflect on their experiences of the training they underwent to be able to perform these ophthalmic laser techniques before moving on to discuss how they have honed their techniques with experience.

All treatments do carry some risk and the listener is reminded of the importance of clear communication in setting expectations for the outcome of treatment.

An additional reading element consolidates the learning on this topic.

Subscribe to the series on your preferred podcast player so you don’t miss an next episode. You can access all episodes of Sound Optometry here.

First published: November 2023
Last reviewed: September 2024

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Learning outcomes

Clinical Practice

s.5 Keep your knowledge and skills up to date

Understand the typical treatment patient pathways for YAG capsulotomy and SLT.
Understand the post-treatment complications that may occur after YAG or SLT treatment.

Communication

s. 2 Communicate effectively with patients

Able to explain the risks and benefits of YAG capsulotomy and SLT treatment to a patient, providing reassurance where required.

Unit 1 - YAG and SLT audio track (~28 min)

Audio track
Please listen to the podcast available here or through your preferred podcast listening app. Select the blue arrow at the bottom of the player to access various podcast apps.
Key Points
A fly on the wall recording of a YAG capsulotomy assessment and procedure
Training to perform YAG/SLT capsulotomy procedures
Hearing firsthand experiences from optometrists carrying out YAG capsulotomy and SLT procedures
Techniques, hints and tips for optometrists starting out in YAG and SLT
Indications for YAG and SLT
Managing expectations
Understanding the risks.

Unit 2 - Required reading (~30 min)

More information

References
URL1. Karahan E, Er D, Kaynak S (2014) An Overview of Nd:YAG Laser Capsulotomy. Med Hypothesis Discov Innov Ophthalmol; 3(2), pp 45-50 [Accessed Nov 2023] URL Opens in a new window.
URL2. Jha B, Bhartiya S et al. (2012) Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty: An Overview. J Curr Glaucoma Pract; 6(2), pp 79-90 [Accessed Nov 2023] URL Opens in a new window.
URL3. NICE (2017) Glaucoma: diagnosis and management. NICE guideline [NG81] [Accessed Nov 2023] URL Opens in a new window.
Docet would like to thank the following for their contribution to this programme:
Steven Burge MCOptom DipTp (IP) Prof Cert Glauc – Independent prescribing optometrist in private hospital practice.
Don Williams FCOptom DipTp (IP) Prof DipGlauc PgDip Refractive & Cataract Surgery (TH) Prof Cert Med Ret - Independent prescribing optometrist based in private practice, clinical lead for HealthHarmonie and visiting specialist lecturer (Glaucoma), University of Plymouth.

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