METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING MEIBOMIAN GLAND DYSFUNCTION
First Claim
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1. A method of treating dry eye in humans wherein a flow of naturally occurring secretion to an eye is occluded due to the presence of an obstruction of a meibomian gland of an eyelid and comprising the steps of:
- lifting the eyelid away from the eye;
softening the obstruction; and
applying a regulated force to the eyelid.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A method and apparatus for treating gland dysfunction caused by gland obstruction in order to restore the natural flow of secretion from the gland comprises the application of a combination of energy, suction, vibration, heat, aspiration, chemical agents and pharmacological agents to loosen and thereafter remove the obstructive material.
116 Citations
24 Claims
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1. A method of treating dry eye in humans wherein a flow of naturally occurring secretion to an eye is occluded due to the presence of an obstruction of a meibomian gland of an eyelid and comprising the steps of:
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lifting the eyelid away from the eye; softening the obstruction; and applying a regulated force to the eyelid. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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10. A method of treating dry eye in humans wherein a flow of naturally occurring secretion to an eye is occluded due to the presence of an obstruction in a meibomian gland in an eyelid and comprising the steps of:
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lifting the eyelid away from the eye; softening the obstruction through an application of thermal energy to heat the obstruction to a temperature sufficient to turn the obstruction from a solid to a flowable state; and applying a regulated force to the eyelid. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19)
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20. A method of treating dry eye in humans wherein a flow of naturally occurring secretion to an eye is occluded due to the presence of an obstruction in a meibomian gland in an eyelid and comprising the steps of:
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coupling a device to the eyelid; softening the obstruction with regulated heat; and applying a regulated force and heat via the device to the eyelid. - View Dependent Claims (21, 22, 23, 24)
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Specification