What is ECP?

Endoscopic CycloPhotocoagulation is an outpatient surgical procedure for glaucoma patients that decreases the production of aqueous fluid in the eye. Developed in the early 1990's, the goal of ECP is to lower the pressure in one's eye and reduce or eliminate dependence on glaucoma medications.

An endoscope is an instrument that integrates imaging and delivering laser treatment. The microendoscope, one of the world's smallest surgical endoscopes, allows our surgeons to view the interior of the eye on a monitor and apply the infrared laser treatment precisely on the surface of the ciliary processes located behind the iris. The ciliary tissue shrinks and whitens as it is treated, therefore inhibiting the creation of aqueous fluid by these cells.

ECP is frequently performed in connection with cataract surgery because the same tiny incision which is used for replacing a patient's lens is perfect access for the endoscope to view and laser the ciliary processes. Patients in our surgery center are made comfortable with local anesthesia.

Follow up appointments for ECP involve the same post-operative appointments as cataract surgery. ECP has proven to be safe and effective. Studies show that between fifty to fifty-five percent of patients are able to discontinue their glaucoma medications after cataract/ECP surgery. Almost seventy percent reduce their glaucoma medication and/or the frequency of using medication.

ECP done together with cataract surgery is more effective in reducing ocular pressure than having cataract surgery alone. To read further details from two studies, please click here to these articles:

• ECP at the Time of Phacoemulsification vs Phaco Alone: A Controlled Randomized Study, Stanley J. Berke, MD
• Patients Experience Beneficial Outcomes from Phaco/ECP, Michael Orr, MD