Outer eyelid heat and pressure treatment for treating meibomian gland dysfunction
US7981147B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 17, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jul 19, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 1, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N7/00
- WIPO fieldPharmaceuticals
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction. Heat is applied to the outside of the eyelid to provide conductive heat transfer to the meibomian glands. The application of heat assists in the expression of obstructions or occlusions in the meibomian glands to restore sufficient sebum flow to the lipid layer to treat dry eye. A force may also be applied to the outside of the patient's eyelid to improve conductive heat transfer and reduce blood flow in the eyelid that causes convective heat loss. Thus, the application of force can further increase the temperature level and/or reduce the time to reach desired temperature levels for removing obstructions or occlusions. Reaching increased temperature levels may improve the melting, loosening, or softening of obstructions or occlusions in the meibomian glands while reducing the amount of time to reach desired temperature levels and/or aid in reducing discomfort to the patient during treatment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.