MicroPulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation an option for range of glaucoma patients

Cyclophotocoagulation is a form of cycloablation used to treat glaucoma through the destruction of the ciliary body epithelium and stroma. While this results in a reduction of aqueous secretion and IOP, it is associated with numerous risks. Traditionally performed using cyclocryotherapy, the treatment has proven safer when delivered by contact transscleral methods using an 810 nm continuous wave diode laser. Using this modality, the treatment is generally effective for all forms of glaucoma, but effects can be unpredictable. Notable complications can include morbidity from hypotony, visual deterioration and phthisis bulbi. A new paradigm, MicroPulse P3 from Iridex, offers equivalent or superior efficacy results with significantly reduced risk factors.While traditional continuous wave lasers can be destructive to ancillary tissue, MicroPulse delivers the laser in short bursts to allow the surgeon to target specific areas while giving the tissue time to cool down between bursts, minimizing damage. MicroPulse has been used successfully in retinal diseases, and now MicroPulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (mTSCPC) using the MicroPulse P3 probe and the new Cyclo G6 glaucoma laser system (Iridex) has been shown to have excellent safety and efficacy rates. Studies have reported greater IOP reduction rates and lower incidence of complications than continuous-wave procedures, with most reporting no cases of macular edema, phthisis or visually significant hypotony.