Experimental study of an automated system for the delivery of eyedrops using a microinfusion pump.

Abstract

PURPOSE: To determine the feasibility of using a commercially available microinfusion pump for the continuous delivery of eye drops using a rabbit model. DESIGN: Laboratory investigation. METHODS: Tear secretion was measured after attaching a microinfusion pump to the superior fornix of a rabbit. The pump was set to deliver artificial tears continuously. A rabbit eye was first chemically burned with 1N NaOH, the pump was then set to deliver 0.1% fluorometholone continuously. Results were compared with those obtained using 0.1% fluorometholone. RESULTS: Schirmer tests indicated that an average of 22.3 mm in eyes supported by a pump and an average of 10.3 mm in eyes without pump. Moreover, eyes treated with corticosteroid delivered by pump recovered faster than those treated with topical corticosteroid. CONCLUSIONS: The continuous delivery of eye drops by a microinfusion pump could be applicable to patients with severe dry eyes or ocular surface diseases. Further study should be needed.