Importance

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Abstract

A canalicular implant adapted to be inserted into the punctum of an eye and which is adapted to be transported into the horizontal portion of the canaliculus to occlude the same is shown. The implant comprises an elongated member having a medial end, an opposed lateral end and a central member having a predetermined dimensional cross-section extending therebetween. The medial end has a tapered section which slopes and decreases in cross-section as it extends towards the medial end. The tapered section terminates in a medial tip having a dimension which enables the medial tip to enter and pass through the punctum. The lateral end has a collapsible flared section which increases in cross section as it approaches the lateral end and which terminates in an outer edge having dimension which is greater than the predetermined dimensional cross section of the central member. The collapsible flared section has a fully extended position and a collapsed position. The dimension of the collapsible flared section is approximately equal to the geometrical dimension of the horizontal section of a canaliculus of an eye adapted to receive the same. A radial force applied in a direction to collapse the outer edge of the collapsible flared section urges the same from its fully extended position into the collapsed position. A method for treating external eye condition due to a deficiency of tears utilizing the canalicular implant is also shown.

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First Claim