Endoscopic Cyclophotocoagulation (ECP)
ECP is a technique that reduces the amount of fluid (aqueous humor) produced in the eye and thus lowers pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP). This can help patients suffering from glaucoma, a disease where excess fluid puts pressure on the optic nerve and damages vision.
ECP can be performed at the same time as cataract surgery for patients who suffer from both cataracts and glaucoma.
During an ECP procedure, the ophthalmologist inserts a tiny probe with a fiber optic light at the tip into the part of the eye that produces fluid, known as the ciliary body or ciliary process. Laser energy then damages some of these cells so they stop producing fluid. The result is a lower pressure within the eye. Many patients who undergo ECP will sometimes no longer need eye drops or other glaucoma medications after treatment.