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

Abstract

To determine the feasibility of using a commercially available microinfusion pump for the continuous delivery of eye drops using a rabbit model. Laboratory investigation. 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. 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. 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.