Why are amniotic membranes or discs more effective than eye drops?
Dry eye inflammation and pain can vary in severity, and while over-the-counter and prescription eye drops may offer temporary relief, they often lack the therapeutic effectiveness needed for true ocular surface healing. In contrast, a small contact lens containing an amniotic membrane disc leverages regenerative properties to restore the eye's normal state. Few treatments can heal severely damaged corneas and ocular surfaces while also addressing dry eye symptoms. Clinical studies consistently demonstrate that amniotic membranes promote healing, alleviate eye pain, and enhance overall vision.
What eye conditions can benefit from the therapeutic use of amniotic discs?How Are Amniotic Disc Therapies Administered?Amniotic Discs and FDA Approval
What eye conditions can benefit from the therapeutic use of amniotic discs?
Amniotic discs are effective in healing the severely damaged ocular surface caused by various eye conditions, including:
- Contact lens overwear
- Autoimmune diseases
- Dry eye disease
- Corneal erosions
- Chemical or thermal burns
- Epithelial corneal defects
- Eye infections
- Keratitis
- Corneal ulcers
- Neurotrophic keratopathy
How Are Amniotic Disc Therapies Administered?
Amniotic disks are innovative medical devices designed to promote healing of the eye. These disks are applied directly to the affected cornea during an in-office procedure. Once placed on the eye, they are secured with a soft contact lens, which helps keep the disk in position. Over the next 5-7 days, the amniotic disk gradually dissolves into the cornea, initiating the healing process.
At the patient’s follow-up appointment, the contact lens is removed.
Amniotic membrane disk therapy is highly effective for conditions such as dry eye disease, corneal erosions, chemical burns, epithelial defects, and certain eye infections—particularly when other conventional treatments have failed to provide adequate relief.
Amniotic Discs and FDA Approval
Amniotic membranes are FDA-approved as Class II medical devices. Their protective, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties have also been cleared by the FDA for use in various therapeutic applications.
If you think amniotic membrane disk therapy could benefit you, reach out to our dry eye specialist. Schedule an appointment today at the NJ Vision and Dry Eye Center.