Methods and systems for treating meibomian gland dysfunction using radio-frequency energy
US9719977B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 21, 2012 |
| Grant date | Aug 1, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/206664
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction is disclosed. The method includes directing RF energy to an internal portion of a meibomian gland, selectively targeting an obstruction within a duct of the meibomian gland with the applied RF energy to melt, loosen, or soften the obstruction, and expressing the obstruction from the duct of the meibomian gland. An apparatus for treating meibomian gland dysfunction is also disclosed. The apparatus comprises at least one RF electrode configured to direct RF energy to an internal portion of a meibomian gland located in an eyelid of an eye, the at least one RF electrode further configured to selectively target an obstruction within a duct of the meibomian gland with the applied RF energy to melt, loosen, or soften the obstruction. The apparatus also comprises at least one expressor configured to express the obstruction from the duct of the meibomian gland.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.