Optical iridectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat certain types of glaucoma by creating a small opening in the iris to improve fluid drainage from the eye. This procedure is typically used in cases of angle-closure glaucoma, where the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, leading to increased intraocular pressure.

During optical iridectomy, the surgeon removes a small portion of the iris, creating a new pathway for aqueous humor (the fluid in the eye) to drain, which helps to lower intraocular pressure. This procedure can be performed with a laser or surgically.

Optical iridectomy helps to control intraocular pressure, prevent damage to the optic nerve, and preserve vision in patients with certain types of glaucoma.