CPT® Code 66710

The ciliary body is an essential structure located just behind the iris of the eye. It plays a crucial role in the production of aqueous humor, the clear fluid that fills the anterior chamber of the eye, and is also involved in the process of accommodation, which allows the eye to focus on objects at varying distances. Ciliary body destruction is a medical procedure performed primarily to treat glaucoma, particularly in cases where the condition has not responded adequately to medication or less invasive surgical interventions aimed at improving fluid outflow. The procedure aims to reduce the production of aqueous humor by partially destroying the ciliary body, which in turn lowers intraocular pressure, a critical factor in managing glaucoma. Cyclophotocoagulation, specifically through a transscleral approach, is one method used for ciliary body destruction. This technique involves the application of laser energy to the ciliary body without making any incisions, thereby minimizing trauma to the eye. A local periocular anesthetic is typically administered to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. The use of a lid speculum helps to keep the eyelids open, allowing the physician to position a laser probe accurately over the ciliary body. The laser energy penetrates through the sclera, targeting the ciliary body to achieve the desired destruction while potentially affecting surrounding tissues. In cases where the eye has better visual potential, an alternative method known as endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) may be employed. This technique involves the use of a laser probe inserted through a small incision, allowing for more precise targeting of the ciliary processes while preserving some of the ciliary body to maintain aqueous production. Both procedures aim to effectively manage intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma, tailoring the approach based on the visual potential of the eye.