What is the yag laser used for in eye?

YAG (yttrium-aluminum-garnet) lasers are commonly used in ophthalmology, the branch of medicine dealing with the eyes. Here are some of the applications of YAG lasers in eye treatment:

Posterior Capsulotomy: After cataract surgery, some patients may develop a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), where the capsule supporting the artificial lens becomes cloudy. A YAG laser can be used to make a small opening in the posterior capsule, restoring clear vision.

Iridotomy: YAG lasers can be used to create a small hole in the iris (the colored part of the eye) to improve drainage of fluid from the eye. This procedure, known as peripheral iridotomy, is performed to treat certain types of glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased pressure within the eye.

Trabeculoplasty: In a procedure called laser trabeculoplasty, a YAG laser is used to modify the trabecular meshwork, a tissue in the eye that regulates fluid drainage. This helps to lower intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma.

Vitreolysis: YAG lasers can be used to break up vitreous opacities or "floaters." These are tiny particles in the vitreous humor (the gel-like substance that fills the back of the eye) that can cast shadows on the retina, causing visual disturbances. YAG laser vitreolysis aims to improve vision by disintegrating these opacities.

Retinal Tear Repair: In selected cases of retinal tears, a YAG laser can be used to create small welds around the tear to prevent further retinal detachment.

Anterior Synechialysis: For individuals with iris adhesions to the cornea (anterior synechiae), YAG lasers can release these adhesions and restore proper iris movement.

YAG lasers are also employed in other specialized ophthalmic procedures like pupilloplasty (reshaping the pupil) and secondary lens implantation. The use of YAG lasers requires trained ophthalmologists, and the specific application will depend on the patient's individual condition and medical history.