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 Endoscopic CycloPhotocoagulation or ECP, is an exciting new development in the management of most types of glaucoma.
Benefits of ECP
ECP has proven to be an effective way to reduce intra-ocular pressure. Studies have shown that the majority of patients have their glaucoma medications reduced or completely eliminated after the procedure and are no longer at risk of loss of vision from glaucoma.
ECP is usually done at the time of cataract surgery, because it only adds a few minutes to the cataract procedure and is much safer than traditional filtering surgery. It may also be done with a great deal of success on complicated glaucoma cases where there is no other satisfactory treatment.
ECP is most often performed at the same time as cataract surgery, after the cataract has been removed from the eye. No additional incisions are required. The ECP probe uses tiny, optical fibers to illuminate, view and treat the ciliary body with laser energy. Approximately 20 to 40 laser applications will be administered.
Your eye pressure will be checked shortly after your procedure and drops may be prescribed to alleviate any soreness or swelling inside your eye. You may also receive oral medications to control inflammation.
How ECP is Performed
ECP is performed on an outpatient basis. The ECP procedure consists of using laser light to cauterize part of the ciliary body, which results in less fluid and lower intra-ocular pressure. This reduces fluid production that in turn, reduces intra-ocular pressure.
Dr.Benjamin views the area through an endoscopic camera, which allows precise placement of the treatment with the laser beam.
The ciliary body of the eye is a small gland running around the circumference of the eye, located just behind the iris. It creates the fluid that fills the front third of the eye.
Post ECP Instructions
You should relax for the rest of the day. Follow-up visits are necessary to monitor your eye pressure. It may take a few weeks to see the full pressure-lowering effect of this procedure. Most patients resume normal activities within a few days.
Realistic Expectations
The effect of the surgery may wear off over time. But the majority of patients have their pressure reduced and many can eliminate their need for glaucoma medications. However, this procedure as in any glaucoma surgery does not restore lost vision. Serious complications with Endoscopic Cyclo Photocoagulation are rare, but like any surgical procedure, it does have some risks. You will be given additional information about the procedure that will allow you to make an informed decision prior to the procedure.
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