Iridotomy is used to treat what type of condition?

Iridotomy is specifically used to treat conditions associated with pupillary block, which is a form of angle-closure glaucoma. In this situation, there is a physical blockage preventing the aqueous humor in the eye from flowing freely, often due to the position of the iris relative to the drainage angle. The procedure involves creating a small hole in the peripheral area of the iris, which allows aqueous humor to flow from behind the iris to the anterior chamber of the eye, thereby relieving the pressure caused by the blockage. This is essential in preventing complications, including sudden increases in intraocular pressure that can lead to vision loss.

Other conditions mentioned, such as open-angle glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, and pigmentary glaucoma, have different underlying mechanisms and may require different treatment approaches, such as medication or laser therapy focused on improving drainage through the trabecular meshwork rather than creating an additional opening in the iris.