Powerful Relief for Dry Eye and Other Ocular Surface Conditions

Many people suffer from chronic, recurrent eye pain and blurry vision caused by advanced Dry Eye Disease and other ocular surface conditions that cause inflammation.

In many instances, treatments such as drops, ointments, and prescription drugs provide temporary relief, but fail to provide lasting, long-term recovery patients need.

One leading-edge treatment option for these patients is amniotic membrane therapy. MOA specializes in this therapeutic option that helps patients who are seeking solutions to severe Dry Eye and other conditions such as:

• Sjogren’s Syndrome
• Lupus
• Certain types of Conjunctivitis
• Corneal Erosion or Damage from Burns or Scratches 
• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

What is an Amniotic Membrane?

Amniotic membranes are small tissue transplants placed on the surface of the eye using a simple, quick, in-office procedure. The membranes contain stem cells and growth factors that have incredible regenerative properties and help promote healing on damaged portions of the surface of the eye.

There are two types of amniotic membranes: dehydrated and frozen.  Dehydrated membranes are applied to the underside of a bandage contact lens. Frozen membranes are mounted on a thin plastic ring and are inserted without the need for a bandage contact lens to hold the membrane in place.

Thanks to improvements in tissue collection, preparation and preservation, this incredible healing technology is more widely available than ever before.

How Does the Amniotic Membrane Procedure Work?
Once a patient is identified as a good candidate for amniotic membrane therapy, the in-office experience for insertion of the membrane is generally quick and painless.

• The patient is placed in a reclining position and numbing drops are applied to the impacted eye.
• The membrane is inserted over the damaged part of the cornea using a bandage contact lens or thin plastic ring.
• Specialized drops are placed in the eye to promote healing.
• The patient returns within a week to have the bandage contact lens or retaining ring removed by their doctor and the healing progress of the membrane treatment is evaluated.
• The effects of the therapy are not immediate, but within a few days to a week, vision should become clearer with a noticeable reduction in pain and discomfort.
• Typically, removing the bandage lens or retaining rings at the follow up appointment reveals an incredibly well healed ocular surface for the physician to evaluate along with significant improvements in comfort and vision clarity for the patient.

The MOA team prides itself on providing tailored, innovative solutions for our patients. Amniotic membranes are another powerful treatment we can provide patients on their eye health journey.

If you are interested in learning more about this important new therapy option, ask your MOA Medical Optometrist for details and find out if you are a candidate.