Methods and systems for treating meibomian gland dysfunction using radio-frequency energy

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United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 9719977
SERIAL NO

13590828

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Abstract

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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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Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
TEARSCIENCE INC5151 MCCRIMMON PARKWAY SUITE 250 MORRISVILLE NC 27560

International Classification(s)

Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Bacich, Steven Half Moon Bay, US 36 2602
Gravely, Benjamin Tyson Raleigh, US 6 338
Grenon, Stephen M Durham, US 78 2578
Korb, Donald R Boston, US 107 3824
Willis, Timothy R Raleigh, US 69 2402

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