Posters

Thermal pulsation treatment for MGD and dry eye to optimize tear film for better quality of vision after advanced technology lens implantation

Poster Details

First Author: B.Kusa ITALY

Co Author(s):    M. Piovella              

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 Microchirurgia Ambulatoriale Monza, Italy

Methods:

96 eyes of 48 patients (mean age 54.65 ± 14.98 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 the functionality. Criteria for treatment eligibility were LipiView score ≤ 70 ICU and meibonian gland function evaluation. Patients received a LipiFlow treatment (TearScience, Morrisville, NC) designed to remove obstructions and restore meibomian gland function. Patients were reassessed - at 1-3-6 months - 1year and 2-3 years post treatment.

Results:

In all eyes, the symptoms had decreased at 1 - months post-treatment. The mean pre-treatment ICU score is increased from 53.70 ± 19.36 to 67.64 ± 18.13 at 3 year post-treatment. The AVG ICU showed 20.6% increase. Patients reported no discomfort or pain during or after treatment.

Conclusions:

This new system provides an effective and efficient means of treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction and evaporative dry eye. For patients with MGD, this treatment should be considered prior to laser assisted refractive surgery or advanced technology lens implantation in order to optimize the tear film and thus optimize surgical outcomes. FINANCIAL DISCLOUSRE: One or more of the authors receives consulting fees, retainer, or contract payments from a company producing, developing or supplying the product or procedure presented, One or more of the authors travel has been funded, fully or partially, by a company producing, developing or supplying the product or procedure presented