Methods and systems for treating meibomian gland dysfunction using radio-frequency energy
First Claim
1. A method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction, comprising the steps of:
- directing radio frequency (RF) energy to an internal portion of a meibomian gland;
selectively targeting an obstruction within a duct of the meibomian gland with the RF energy to melt, loosen, or soften the obstruction;
expressing the obstruction from the duct of the meibomian gland; and
sensing a presence of fluid being expressed from the meibomian gland.
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Abstract
A method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction is disclosed. The method includes directing RF energy to an internal portion of a meibomian gland, selectively targeting an obstruction within a duct of the meibomian gland with the applied RF energy to melt, loosen, or soften the obstruction, and expressing the obstruction from the duct of the meibomian gland. An apparatus for treating meibomian gland dysfunction is also disclosed. The apparatus comprises at least one RF electrode configured to direct RF energy to an internal portion of a meibomian gland located in an eyelid of an eye, the at least one RF electrode further configured to selectively target an obstruction within a duct of the meibomian gland with the applied RF energy to melt, loosen, or soften the obstruction. The apparatus also comprises at least one expressor configured to express the obstruction from the duct of the meibomian gland.
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Citations
18 Claims
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1. A method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction, comprising the steps of:
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directing radio frequency (RF) energy to an internal portion of a meibomian gland; selectively targeting an obstruction within a duct of the meibomian gland with the RF energy to melt, loosen, or soften the obstruction; expressing the obstruction from the duct of the meibomian gland; and sensing a presence of fluid being expressed from the meibomian gland. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18)
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Specification