The first ever tear duct implant developed to treat inflammation and pain following cataract surgery could be a good alternative to eye drops.

The device automatically delivers the correct level of postoperative medication in patients. After 30 days, it liquefies and is evacuated through the tear ducts, without the need for outside intervention.

Tested in four American ophthalmology practices, the device delivered dexamethasone into the eyes of 30 patients over 30 days, while 30 other patients received a placebo. On day one, the placebo group reported pain three times higher than the medicated group. After 14 days, the pain was 11 times higher than it was for the others.

For further information: http://www.newswise.com/articles/tear-duct-implant-effective-at-reducing-pain-and-inflammation-in-cataract-surgery-patients