Early intraocular pressure response following laser trabeculoplasty.

The early response in the intraocular pressure following laser trabeculoplasty was investigated in 38 patients. An increase in pressure was found in 16 patients (42%), of whom eight had a moderate (less than 9 mmHg) and eight a severe (greater than 10 mmHg) increase. The maximum increase was recorded during the first post-laser hour in 13 patients (34.2%) and at 4 h in three patients postoperatively. A routine follow-up observation at 4 h after laser treatment is recommended to prevent 'silent' hypertensive risk.