iridotomy
Laser Hole in the Iris
Plain-language definition
A laser-made hole in the iris that relieves angle-closure glaucoma by letting fluid pass directly from behind the iris to in front of it. This equalizes the pressure that was pushing the iris forward and blocking the eye's drainage angle.
Expanded explanation
iridotomy is the glossary term for Laser Hole in the Iris. On a full article page, it should be read as a treatment or procedure term, not as a stand-alone diagnosis or treatment plan.
Treatment terms describe procedures, surgeries, devices, supportive care, or treatment strategies. The key issue is not just what the treatment is called, but what problem it is meant to solve and what tradeoffs it carries.
In eye care context
Treatment terms describe procedures, surgeries, devices, or treatment strategies used to manage eye and vision conditions.
What to look for around this term
- Which condition, symptom, or exam finding the treatment is meant to address.
- Whether the treatment is urgent, elective, preventive, temporary, long-term, or part of a stepwise plan.
- Expected recovery, alternatives, risks, and what follow-up is needed.
Questions this term may raise
- What is the treatment goal?
- What are the main alternatives?
- What should improve, and how will success be measured?
- Category
- Treatment or procedure
- Also written as
- No alternate forms listed.
Related glossary terms
- anticoagulation
Blood-Thinning Treatment
- aphakia
Eye Without a Lens
- autograft
Self-Tissue Transplant
- capsulotomy
Laser Clearing After Cataract Surgery
- catheter
Thin Flexible Tube
- coagulation
Blood Clotting
A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.