Frequently Asked Questions: Technology
How does the LipiFlow technology achieve results that improve upon simple warm compress regimen?
The tarsal plate is composed of a dense fibrous connective tissue and is curved to conform to the globe of the eye.
It is the tarsal plate barrier that limits the effectiveness of warm compresses in reaching the meibomian glands. Enough heat on the outer eyelid must be generated to overcome not only the vascular network within the eyelid carrying heat away (the so called “wicking effect”), but also the fibrous connective tissue of the tarsal plate itself.
Since the LipiFlow disposable heats the inner eyelid, coming in contact directly with the meibomian glands, the tarsal plate does not need to be crossed.
Does the Disposable rest on the cornea; isn’t that potentially harmful to the patient?
The novel design of the LipiFlow disposable vaults off the cornea. In addition, the unique sensing and fail-safe systems built into the device prevent the introduction of heat at unsafe levels or pressure energy to the globe.
How do I know this new technology really works?
A multi-center randomized clinical trial conducted on 139 patients showed significant improvement in mean meibomian gland score and in mean self-reported symptom score 4 weeks after LipiFlow treatment.5
In addition, 90.6% of patients had an increase in the total meibomian gland score and 84-88%* of patients had a reduction in dry eye symptom score using two different questionnaires*. At 4 weeks after treatment 79% of patients reported improvement in overall dry eye symptoms, ranging from 10% to 100% improvement.