Cyclophotocoagulation for Glaucoma
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 1, 2024.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
Cyclophotocoagulation is a laser procedure to decrease the amount of fluid your eye makes. Glaucoma is caused by fluid buildup behind the eye. This procedure will decrease the pressure on your optic nerve and help slow or prevent further damage and vision loss. You may need this procedure on one or both eyes.
HOW TO PREPARE:
Before your procedure:
- You may need to see your eye doctor 1 to 4 days before the procedure for a complete eye exam.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
- Do not drink alcohol for 48 hours before the procedure.
The night before your procedure:
Ask about directions for eating and drinking.
The day of your procedure:
- Use your eyedrops and other medicines as directed. Bring your medicines with you to the procedure.
- Do not wear earrings or hearing aids.
- Do not wear makeup or lotion on your face.
- You or a close family member will be asked to sign a legal document called a consent form. It gives the surgeon permission to do the procedure. It also explains the risks and your choices. Make sure all your questions are answered before you sign this form.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN:
What will happen:
- You will be given eyedrops to numb your eye. You may also be given medicine to help you relax. Your eye doctor will use a face holder to help keep your head still during the procedure.
- Your eye doctor will point a laser at the sclera (white part of your eye). The laser will go through the sclera to the ciliary body, which is where eye fluid is made. The laser will damage parts of the ciliary body so that it will make less eye fluid.
After your procedure:
Your eye doctor will put eyedrops or ointment in your eye to decrease inflammation. He or she will check your eye pressure. You will be taken to a room where you can rest after your procedure. You will be able to go home when your eye doctor says it is okay.
CONTACT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF:
- You have a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your procedure.
Risks
You may have severe eye inflammation. Your eye may bleed. Your vision may be blurry. You may need this procedure more than once. Your eye pressure could become too low. If this happens, you may lose your vision, or you may lose your eye.
Care Agreement
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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