Carolina Eyecare Physicians is proud to offer the recently released Voyager™ DSLT laser treatment for patients with glaucoma. The practice is among the first in the country to utilize this technology to perform Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT). Additionally, the DSLT glaucoma procedure is the first of its kind to be offered in the state of South Carolina.
Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes damage to the optic nerve due to high intraocular pressure (IOP). The optic nerve is responsible for transmitting vision from the eye to the brain. When the nerve becomes damaged, vision loss can occur. The DSLT laser procedure works to stimulate the drainage of intraocular fluid, which lowers the pressure in the eye.
Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT) is considered the next generation of the existing Glaucoma laser treatment called Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT). The main difference is that DSLT is a non-invasive, “non-contact” procedure. The DSLT laser uses a self-guided laser to achieve results more efficiently and precisely. This functionality improvement of the DSLT laser alleviates the requirement for placement of a lens on the eye at the time of treatment and maximizes patient comfort.
How DSLT Is Transforming Glaucoma Care
With advancements in ophthalmology, DSLT represents a major leap forward for patients struggling with glaucoma management. Traditional treatments, such as eye drops or surgery, can be time-consuming and inconvenient for patients. DSLT minimizes patient discomfort while offering a quick, effective, and repeatable option.
Unlike older laser techniques, this laser eye treatment for glaucoma requires no physical contact with the cornea, reducing the risk of infection and ensuring a more hygienic and comfortable experience. The Voyager™ system delivers highly accurate, consistent results, making it ideal for both early-stage and advanced glaucoma patients.
Another major benefit of DSLT is its efficiency. The entire procedure typically takes only a few minutes per eye and can often be performed in a regular clinical setting without the need for operating room facilities. This makes it a practical, accessible option for patients throughout the Lowcountry region.
Why Early Detection and Treatment Matter
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can progress without noticeable symptoms until vision loss becomes significant. Early detection combined with advanced technologies like DSLT can help protect vision and slow disease progression. Carolina Eyecare Physicians encourages patients with a family history of glaucoma, elevated eye pressure, or other risk factors to undergo regular eye exams.
Dr. Cole Milliken explains, “Our goal is to provide patients with effective, comfortable options for maintaining their vision and independence. With DSLT, we’re offering a solution that’s not only clinically advanced but also designed with patient safety and convenience in mind.”
“The DSLT laser treatment has a high success rate in helping patients stabilize their IOP. This additional tool is now the first-line glaucoma laser treatment for patients with high IOP and/or open-angle glaucoma.
I anticipate this technology to become the standard of care for glaucoma patients going forward. We’re excited to offer the DSLT glaucoma procedure to our patients in the Low Country at many of our Carolina Eyecare Physicians clinics,” said Dr. Cole Milliken, a Cataract, Cornea, and Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgeon at Carolina Eyecare Physicians.
Ophthalmologists Cole Milliken, M.D., Kerry Solomon, M.D., Peter Knowlton, M.D., and Berdine Burger, M.D. will be offering this procedure at three Carolina Eyecare Physicians clinic locations in North Charleston, West Ashley and Mt. Pleasant. To find out if you are a candidate for the DSLT procedure, call 1-888-873-9348 or schedule a consultation at www.CarolinaEyecare.com.
