Posters

Two year experience and results using a thermal pulsation treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and dry eye syndrome

Poster Details

First Author: M.Piovella ITALY

Co Author(s):    B. Kusa              

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To evaluate a new system for the thermal pulsation treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD) in evaporative dry eye patients.

Setting:

C.M.A Centro di Microchirurgia Ambulatoriale, Via Donizetti 24, Monza (Milan)

Methods:

64 eyes of 33 patients (mean age 51.84 ± 16.39 years )were diagnosed with MGD based on the following criteria: results of a symptom questionnaire and quantification of the lipid layer thickness using interferometric color units (ICU) as determined by the LipiView (TearScience, Morrisville, NC) and standardized meibomian gland expression to determine meibomian gland functionality. Criteria for treatment eligibility were LipiView score ≤ 70 ICU and meibonian gland function evaluation. Eligible patients received a LipiFlow treatment (TearScience, Morrisville, NC) designed to remove meibomian gland obstructions and restore meibomian gland function. Patients were reassessed - at 1-3-6 months - 1year and 2 years post treatment.

Results:

The LipiFlow treatment involves an in-office, 12-minute application of pulsatile pressure and heat to the inner surface of the eyelids to evacuate meibomian gland obstruction. Patients were reassessed one week, one month and three months after treatment. In all eyes, the symptoms had decreased at 1 - months post-treatment. The mean pre-treatment ICU score is increased from 48.42 ± 16.99 to 66.00 ± 16.34 at 1 year post-treatment. The AVG ICU showed 36.30% increase. Patients reported no discomfort or pain during or after treatment.

Conclusions:

Meibomiam gland produce the lipid component of the tear film, that prevents evaporation of the water component. The LipiView system provides detailed informations that helps to detect diagnosis of MGD. The LipiFlow system proved to be an effective treatment for MGD and evaporative dry eye. This treatment maybe considered for patients with MGD prior to laser FINANCIAL INTEREST: One of more of the authors... receives consulting fees, retainer, or contract payments from a company producing, developing or supplying the product or procedure presented