In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, advancements in technology continue to redefine patient care. At the forefront of this evolution is the IU Dry Eye Clinic, which has recently integrated the cutting-edge OptiPlus technology into its practice and is the first Optometry School clinic to offer this technology. This innovative addition promises to revolutionize the treatment and management of dry eye disease, offering new hope to patients suffering from this chronic condition. Dr. Anna Tichenor, Director of the IU Dry Eye Clinic, is excited to be able to offer this technology to patients.
“Now that we can offer both radio frequency and intense pulsed light therapy for patients, we are really at the forefront of treating the root causes of dry eye disease: inflammation and obstructed oil glands in the eyelids,” says Dr. Tichenor.
Understanding Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease is a common ocular condition characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, leading to discomfort, irritation, and in severe cases, potential damage to the cornea. Millions of individuals worldwide experience symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to significant impairment of daily activities. Meibomian gland dysfunction, present in 86% of patients with dry eye disease, is a condition where the meibomian glands in the eyelids are unable to secrete the oily portion of the tear film which leads to poor tear film quality and fluctuating vision. Traditional treatments have often included lubricating eye drops, warm compresses, and prescription eye drops, which don’t provide relief to all patients.
Enter OptiPlus: How It Works
OptiPlus uses radio frequency technology for meibomian gland dysfunction to deliver heat across several skin layers to improve functionality of the meibomian glands and enhance collagen production. The heat delivered liquefies oil within the glands and allows it to be released for improved secretion and tear film stability. Sessions for treatment are short and take only about 10–15 minutes. The added benefit of collagen stimulation can improve eyelid tightness and skin appearance around the eyes.
OptiPlus Training
Clinicians and staff at IU’s Atwater Eye Care Center underwent training on July 10, 2024, to become certified at delivering OptiPlus treatments. A clinical trainer guided our team in a hands-on training session on volunteers as part of the certification process.
Summary
The introduction of OptiPlus at the IU Dry Eye Clinic elevates standards of treatment for dry eye and enhances our ability to provide personalized care especially when combined with the clinic’s existing technology such as the OptiLight (intense pulsed light therapy). In addition, by providing the latest technological advances, we ensure that our student clinicians are being trained with a full understanding of the latest technologies available in managing dry eye disease.
Want to schedule an appointment?
Please call the Atwater Eye Care Center at 812-855-8436 to schedule an exam in the IU Dry Eye Clinic to see if OptiPlus is the right treatment for you. No referral is necessary.
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