A novel system for the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction and evaporative dry eye with a 12 to 18 month follow-up

Poster Details

First Author: C.Albou-Ganem FRANCE

Co Author(s):    R. Amar              

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To evaluate a new system for the treatment meibomian gland dysfunction and evaporative dry eye.

Setting:

Private Surgery Center, Paris, France

Methods:

Sixteen (16) eyes of twelve (12) patients (mean age 56.5 ± 14.8 years [46, 67]) were diagnosed with meibomian gland dysfunction based on the following criteria: the results of a symptom questionnaire (SPEED: Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness), 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. Based on the results of the SPEED score, interferometry results and gland evaluation, these patients were deemed eligible for a LipiFlow treatment (TearScience, Morrisville, NC) designed to remove meibomian gland obstructions and restore meibomian gland function. The LipiFlow treatment involves an in-office, 12-minute application of pulsatile pressure to the outer surfaces and heat to the inner surfaces of the eyelids, intended to evacuate meibomian gland obstructions. Patients were reassessed at 12-18 months post-treatment.

Results:

In all eyes, the symptoms had decreased at 12-18 months post-treatment. The mean pre-treatment SPEED score decreased from 16.30 ± 5.90 to 7.75 ± 4.30 at 12-18 months post-treatment Standardized diagnostic expression revealed an increase in mean meibomian gland function from 4.20 ± 0.20 pre-treatment to 7.80 ± 2.50 post-treatment Patients reported no discomfort or pain during or after treatment.

Conclusions:

This new system provides an effective means of treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction and evaporative dry eye. The treatment is comfortable and quick (12 minutes per eye). The system also offers valuable diagnostic tools such as standardized diagnostic expression to determine meibomian gland functionality and the quantification of the lipid layer thickness. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE?: No