Steve Bacich

US Patent:

20150216725, Aug 6, 2015

Filed:

Aug 22, 2013

Appl. No.:

14/422948

Inventors:

- Morrisville NC, US
Steve Bacich - Half Moon Bay CA, US
Caroline Blackie - North Andover MA, US
Stephen M. Grenon - Durham NC, US

International Classification:

A61F 9/007

Abstract:

Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for the diagnosis and removal of the devitalized and/or dead cell material formed in the lid margin to attempt to restore a normal lid margin. In this manner, the devitalized and/or dead cell material are removed or the amount present is reduced or no longer present to prevent, reduce, or affect the transport of lipid secreted by the meibomian glands to the tear film to reduce evaporative dry eye and improve dry eye conditions in patients. The diagnosis and removal of devitalized and/or dead cell material may be performed at desired intervals. Patients that suffer from conditions that block meibomian gland orifices, partial, infrequent, or inhibited blinking resulting in reduced lipid secretions from meibomian glands, and/or blockages in meibomian gland channels reducing secretion of lipids through the meibomian gland orifices may require more frequent diagnosis and treatment to remove devitalized and/or dead cell material.