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Intense pulsed light demonstrates efficacy in treating MGD, dry eye
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MILAN, Italy — A 3-year retrospective evaluation of 91 patients treated with intense pulsed light for meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye found that the treatment is effective in reducing symptoms without causing adverse effects, according to a presenter here.
Intense pulsed light (IPL) entails the use of a xenon flash lamp delivering energy to the lower periocular area and facial skin just below it, acting as a powerful warm compress to liquefy the thickened oil secretions of the meibomian glands.
“IPL also closes off the blood vessels that are sending inflammatory mediators to the gland,” Rolando Toyos, MD, said at the annual joint meeting of OSN and the Italian Society of Ophthalmology.
Improvement in meibum was observed in 94% of eyes included in the study, and a better lid margin was seen in 98% of eyes. Patient satisfaction was high, with 93% reporting improvement in dry eye symptoms.
“IPL can be used also to treat patients who present dry eye symptoms prior to cataract or LASIK surgery. About 5% of our cataract and LASIK patients undergo this procedure,” Dr. Toyos said.
- Disclosure: Dr. Toyos is a consultant for DermaMed and Oculus.