STIMULATION DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING DRY EYE

摘要

Described herein are devices and methods of use thereof for treating dry eye, tired eye, or other forms of ocular discomfort such as from contact lenses. The methods generally include applying spatially and/or temporally patterned stimulation to one or more anatomical structures located in an ocular or nasal region. The electrical stimulation may elicit a reflex that activates the lacrimal gland or may directly activate the lacrimal gland or nerves innervating the lacrimal gland to produce tears. The devices may be implantable or handheld, and may be configured to deliver the spatially and/or temporally patterned stimulation patterns described.

主权项

1. A method for treating dry eye in a patient in need thereof, comprising:
contacting nasal mucosa of the patient with a first electrode; and delivering current from the electrode through tissue of the patient to a return contact, wherein the electrode is located on a nasal insertion prong of a stimulator probe of a stimulator, and the return contact is located on a stimulator body of the stimulator, and wherein the stimulator probe is reversibly attachable to the stimulator body.