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Abstract

An apparatus and technique for transscleral light-mediated biostimulation of the trabecular plates of a patient's eye in a treatment for glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The apparatus includes; (i) a working end geometry for contacting the anterior surface of the sclera and cornea to insure that a laser emission reaches the trabecular meshwork from a particular location on the anterior surface of the sclera, (ii) a laser energy source providing a wavelength appropriate for absorption beneath the anterior scleral surface to the depth of the trabecular plates, and (iii) a dosimetry control system for controlling the exposure of the laser emission at the particular spatial locations. The device uses a light energy source that emits wavelengths in the near-infrared portion of the spectrum, preferably in the range of about 1.30 .mu.m to 1.40 .mu.m or from about 1.55 .mu.m to 1.85 .mu.m. The depth of absorption of such wavelength ranges will extend through most, if not all, of the thickness of the sclera (750 .mu.m to 950 .mu.m). In accordance with a proposed method of trabecular biostimulation, the targeted region is elevated in temperature to a range between about 40.degree. C. to 55.degree. C. for a period of time ranging from about 1 second to 120 seconds or more.

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