Endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) in the management of uncontrolled glaucoma with prior aqueous tube shunt

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) in the treatment of uncontrolled glaucoma with a prior aqueous tube shunt.

A prospective, nonrandomized, interventional clinical trial with up to 2 years of follow up included 25 eyes of 25 consecutive glaucoma patients with a previous tube shunt and uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) despite medical therapy. Patients had IOP greater than 21 mm Hg on maximal medications or IOP ≤21 mm Hg but intolerant to medications or using an oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. Application of ECP over 360 degrees was performed and subjects were followed for 6 months minimum. Main outcome measures were mean reduction in IOP and medications at 12 months. Success was defined as reduction in IOP of 3 mm Hg and discontinuation of nontolerated glaucoma medications. A failure was defined as continued uncontrolled IOP, vision loss to no light perception, or additional medications or glaucoma surgery required.

At 12 months, the mean IOP dropped from 24.02 to 15.36 mm Hg. The mean of the differences was -7.77 mm Hg (-30.8%). The mean number of medications was 3.2 before laser and 1.5 at 12 months (P<0.001). The success rate at 12 months (n=18) was 88% and remained at that level until the end of the follow-up period of 2 years (n=11, P<0.00005). There were no serious complications.

ECP seems to be a safe and effective treatment in patients with uncontrolled IOP with a prior aqueous tube shunt, and is a reasonable option in this group of refractory glaucoma patients.