Comparative Study: Phaco with Micropulse Cyclophotocoagulation vs Phaco with Endoscopic Cyclophotocoagulation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Glaucoma Management

Background:

• Glaucoma necessitates intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction to prevent irreversible blindness.
• Cataract surgery alone can lower IOP, but combined procedures offer enhanced control.
• Micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TCP) and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) are advanced techniques for ciliary body treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the safety and efficacy of phacoemulsification combined with MP-TCP versus phacoemulsification combined with ECP.
• To evaluate outcomes in patients with coexisting cataract and glaucoma.

Main Methods:

• A randomized trial involving adults aged 40-80 with cataract and glaucoma.
• Participants were assigned to either phaco + MP-TCP or phaco + ECP.
• Outcomes assessed over 12 months included IOP, medication use, visual acuity, and complications.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed significant IOP reduction and decreased medication burden.
• ECP demonstrated greater early IOP reduction at 1 week and 3 months.
• Long-term IOP control, visual acuity, and complication rates were similar between MP-TCP and ECP.

Conclusions:

• Phaco + MP-TCP and phaco + ECP are safe and effective for managing glaucoma during cataract surgery.
• ECP provides superior initial IOP reduction, while MP-TCP offers better long-term medication reduction.
• Treatment choice should be individualized based on patient needs and clinical priorities.