New Outlook Ophthalmologist Center: Glaucoma/ECP

"What is Glaucoma?"

Glaucoma is a degenerative eye disease that can lead to permanent vision loss and blindness. It affects almost three million Americans, half of whom do not know they have the condition.

Glaucoma results from excessive pressure on or damage to the optic nerve at the back of the eye. Most commonly, this occurs when the fluid that circulates within the eye fails to drain normally, building up pressure in the eye. If not treated, this pressure can damage the many individual nerve fibers that make up the optic nerve and lead, in the initial stages, to blind spots or loss of peripheral vision. Often, the condition progresses so subtly that it is already well advanced before a person notices any vision problems. Regular eye exams with glaucoma screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals or those over 60, are critical as a first step in catching and effectively treating this disease.

Endoscopic CycloPhotocoagulation

ECP, a new laser procedure that takes a novel approach to glaucoma treatment, has proven remarkably effective at stopping the progression of the disease. Instead of focusing on the eye's drainage system, ECP targets its fluid production capacity. The ciliary body is the circular gland beneath the iris responsible for creating fluid. During ECP, a laser is used to treat the ciliary body, thereby reducing the amount of fluid it makes and lowering pressure in the eye. ECP can be performed together with cataract surgery or on its own as an outpatient procedure. ECP effectively lowers intraocular eye pressure, both halting the progression of glaucoma and

allowing many patients to reduce or eliminate their reliance on eye drops.

If you would like to set up an appointment for an eye exam and glaucoma screening, or if you would like to discuss glaucoma treatment options, such as laser eye surgery, with Dr. Cook, please contact New Outlook OC today. We would be happy to meet with you and answer any questions you might have. Contact us to schedule a consultation to discuss treatment for Glaucoma. La Jolla medical staff awaits your call.