Systems and methods for the treatment of eye conditions

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices used to treat eyelids, meibomian glands, ducts, and surrounding tissue are described herein. In some embodiments, an eye treatment device is disclosed, which includes a scleral shield positionable proximate an inner surface of an eyelid, the scleral shield being made of, or coated with, an energy-absorbing material activated by a light energy, and an energy transducer positionable outside of the eyelid, the energy transducer configured to provide light energy at one or more wavelengths, including a first wavelength selected to heat the energy-absorbing material. When the eyelid is positioned between the energy transducer and the scleral shield, the light energy from the energy transducer and the heated energy-absorbing material of the scleral shield conductively heats a target tissue region sufficiently to melt meibum within meibomian glands located within or adjacent to the target tissue region.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 776,333, filed December 6, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference. Priority is claimed on the above filing dates. Background technique [0003] The present disclosure relates to medical devices and methods of use thereof. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and methods for diagnosing and treating disorders of the eye, such as meibomian gland dysfunction and blepharitis (typically involving the eyelids, meibomian glands, ducts, pores, and surrounding tissues) equipment. [0004] Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is considered the most common cause of evaporative dry eye, with studies suggesting a prevalence of between 20% and 60% in the general population. MGD is associated with the inability of the meibomian glands to produce the right amount of their normal secretion called meibum. Meibum is the lip...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Topical and oral antibiotics are available, including oral tetracycline derivatives, which reduce certain bacteria and provide mild anti-inflammatory effects; however, administration of antibiotics may lead to side effects or adverse allergic reactions, and this route is often insufficient to provide Significant long-term relief of inflammation and MGD

Corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation; however, long-term use of such steroids increases the risk of deleterious cortico-lens changes, increased intraocular pressure, and infection due to immunosuppression

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