Ace the 2026 Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant Exam – Eyes on Success, Prep to Impress!

The surgical procedure utilized in the treatment of angle-closure glaucoma is laser peripheral iridotomy. This procedure is specifically designed to create a new drainage pathway for the aqueous humor, which helps to alleviate intraocular pressure that results from the closure of the angle between the iris and the cornea. In angle-closure glaucoma, the blockage of aqueous humor outflow leads to rapid increases in intraocular pressure, causing potential damage to the optic nerve and vision loss.

The laser peripheral iridotomy works by using a laser to create a small hole in the peripheral iris, allowing the aqueous humor to flow more freely into the anterior chamber and out through the trabecular meshwork. This not only relieves the immediate pressure but also prevents future episodes of angle closure.

The other options, while having their own roles in ophthalmic procedures, do not address the specific mechanism of angle closure. Argon laser trabeculoplasty is aimed at open-angle glaucoma and focuses on improving drainage in the trabecular meshwork. Cataract extraction is related to the removal of the lens and does not correct the angle issue that causes angle-closure glaucoma. Corneal transplant involves replacing a diseased cornea and is unrelated to the treatment of intraocular pressure issues caused