Apparatuses and methods for diagnosing and/or treating lipid transport deficiency in ocular tear films, and related components and devices
US10842670B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 2013 |
| Grant date | Nov 24, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 19, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/0817
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for the diagnosis and removal of the devitalized and/or dead cell material formed in the lid margin to attempt to restore a normal lid margin. In this manner, the devitalized and/or dead cell material are removed or the amount present is reduced or no longer present to prevent, reduce, or affect the transport of lipid secreted by the meibomian glands to the tear film to reduce evaporative dry eye and improve dry eye conditions in patients. The diagnosis and removal of devitalized and/or dead cell material may be performed at desired intervals. Patients that suffer from conditions that block meibomian gland orifices, partial, infrequent, or inhibited blinking resulting in reduced lipid secretions from meibomian glands, and/or blockages in meibomian gland channels reducing secretion of lipids through the meibomian gland orifices may require more frequent diagnosis and treatment to remove devitalized and/or dead cell material.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.