Lacrimal filler

摘要

A biomaterial mass is inserted through a punctum into a canaliculus in the lacrimal outflow system with a syringe. The mass has an outer cross section that is less than the inner cross section of the canaliculus. The mass absorbs liquid to swell to form a lacrimal filler or sealing mechanism. The lacrimal filler has an external cross section that conforms to the internal cross section of the canaliculus and a soft outer surface relative to the surrounding tissues to prevent erosion of the canaliculus lining. The lacrimal filler forms an occlusion that prevents the outflow of liquid through the lacrimal outflow system to retain tears within the eye to maintain eye lubrication and wetness. The mass and syringe are provided in kit with a rubber stopper and, optionally, a punctal dilator, an injecting catheter, and an enzyme for dissolving or degrading the lacrimal filler at a later time.

主权项

1. A method for treating dry eye, comprising the steps of:
inserting an injector through a puncta and into a canaliculus in a lacrimal outflow system; inserting a swellable preformed hyaluronic acid gel occluder in a gel form from the injector and into the canaliculus, such that the gel absorbs liquid in the canaliculus and swells to conform to the interior of and form a soft seal within the canaliculus that does not erode the inner lining of the canaliculus, wherein the occluder is suspended in a solution having a hyaluronic acid concentration of between 15 mg/ml and 25 mg/ml, and preventing the outflow of liquid through the lacrimal outflow system with the occluder to retain tears within the eye to maintain eye lubrication and wetness.