About ECP
At Kirk Eye Center, we understand the weight of dealing with glaucoma and the limits this may place on your daily life. Our skilled team of board-certified ophthalmologists is pleased to offer the most cutting-edge techniques and technologies to treat glaucoma, prevent further damage to your optic nerve, and preserve your eyesight. Our board-certified ophthalmology team offers a minimally invasive option known as endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) to reduce the amount of fluid produced in the eye, which lowers intraocular pressure. This treatment would ideally help you rely less on medications for glaucoma. If you have not had success with other glaucoma treatments, we invite you to contact our office in River Forest or Gurnee, IL to learn more about the ECP treatment for glaucoma.
Am I a Candidate for ECP?
ECP is typically performed in conjunction with cataract surgery, but it can also be performed stand alone, for patients with significant ocular hypertension or mild to severe glaucoma of either open or closed angle. It is a safe procedure and can be combined with other minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) in difficult to control or more severe glaucoma cases. If you have glaucoma and are scheduling cataract surgery, this procedure is a good option to help reduce long term medication burden, and better control your eye pressure.
How ECP Is Performed
ECP is an outpatient procedure that generally takes about 15 minutes and does not require a long recovery. First, an endoscope (a small tube with a camera) is placed into the eye through a small incision to allow your surgeon to see the area being treated. Next, laser energy is applied to the ciliary body epithelium (which creates fluid in your eye) to cause some inflammation and scarring, helping to decrease the production of eye fluid. ECP is often performed at the same time as cataract surgery for patients who have both cataracts and glaucoma.
Kirk Eye Center Reviews
Great overall experience with my Lasik procedure for both my eyes. Dr. Kirk & the staff were fantastic throughout the entire process. I'm so pumped that I don't have to wear contacts or glasses ever again!
This is the second time I’ve been to Kirk Eye Center on Harlem. I could not be more pleased. I’ve never had to wait more than a minute or 2 after I arrive. Everyone is friendly and helpful. I’ve seen the technician Rose and Dr Kirk Jr both times and enjoyed being assisted by both. There is even plenty of parking. Glad to have them caring for my diabetic and other needs
This is absolutely no exaggeration. Dr Tyler Kirk saved my right eye. He is the reason I have vision in that eye. I will be a Kirk Eye Center customer for life!
Gurnee Kirk is my "go to home office". Recently had the Femto/Lasik cataract surgery at the surgical center in River Forest. I cannot begin to tell you how professional and yet personal everyone was I came in contact with. From the doctors and technicians, to staff and even the terrific van driver. Everything went so smoothly and I was informed every inch of the way in a very successful procedure. Even the followups being turned over to my long time Optometrist just down the street from me. Five stars is not enough... twenty or more is necessary. Choose Kirk Eye Center, you'll always be grateful you did. Darrell May, Antioch IL.
Had cataract surgery on both eyes and they took very good care of me would highly recommend them.
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What to Expect with ECP
After ECP, many individuals report improved quality of life and the ability to continue in their regular routines. ECP typically helps decrease their reliance on glaucoma medications over the long-term so they can continue to live in good health. While there is not yet a cure for glaucoma, our goal at Kirk Eye Center is to provide advanced glaucoma treatments so patients can continue to live healthy, productive lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does ECP differ from other glaucoma treatments?
ECP is unique because it combines direct visualization of the ciliary body with laser energy to target and reduce aqueous humor production. Unlike traditional glaucoma surgeries, which often require creating an external drainage pathway, ECP is minimally invasive and performed internally. This means fewer risks of complications like infections or wound leaks. It's also often done alongside cataract surgery, making it convenient for patients requiring both treatments.
Is ECP a one-time procedure, or can it be repeated if needed?
In most cases, ECP provides long-term relief, but it may be repeated if the pressure rises again over time. The decision to repeat the procedure depends on factors like how the eye responds and any underlying changes in the ciliary body. It's important to have regular follow-ups with your eye doctor to monitor the effectiveness of the procedure. While some patients might need additional treatments, many find that ECP helps reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma medications.
How does ECP address eye pressure in glaucoma?
ECP targets the ciliary body, the part of the eye responsible for producing aqueous humor. By applying controlled laser energy to this area, the procedure reduces the production of fluid inside the eye. With less fluid being produced, intraocular pressure (IOP) is lowered, which helps protect the optic nerve from damage. It's a precise way to manage eye pressure without creating new drainage pathways.
Discover Your Options
Based on your unique condition, the board-certified ophthalmologists at Kirk Eye Center offer several different treatments for glaucoma, including surgery and minimally invasive treatments. Contact us in River Forest or Gurnee, IL for a comprehensive glaucoma consultation so one of our doctors can help you find the best treatment to sustain your sight.