Of interest, ophthalmologist Barry Linder, MD, MS, has developed an instrument for the management of OSD. This facial masklike device, which is under investigation but currently not approved or cleared by the FDA, is designed for both in-office use and at-home, patient on-demand use.9 Built to comfortably conform to the ocular adnexa, this unit (Eye Lipid Mobilizer; ELM; Eyedetec Medical) includes the integration of novel mechanisms, such as heat and vibration, to induce shear thinning of oils in the eyelid glands, thereby safeguarding the tear film and preventing evaporation.9 Additionally, the ELM incorporates neuromodulation (via specific amplitude and frequency of external device vibration that extends nasally to the bridge of the nose) to stimulate active expression of liquefied meibum offering a comprehensive treatment approach.9
Remember that we have access to alternative and additive treatment modalities in our management of DED. Think outside the drop!
