The Biological Bandage
What is an Amniotic Membrane?
The amniotic membrane is the innermost layer of the placenta, which is typically discarded after childbirth. However, this membrane has special properties that make it useful in medicine, especially for treating eye conditions. When used in eye care, the membrane can help protect and heal damaged areas, reduce inflammation, and support the regeneration of tissues.
How is the amniotic membrane prepared?
Before it can be used in medical treatments, the amniotic membrane is carefully collected from consenting mothers who have undergone planned caesarean sections. The tissue is then thoroughly cleaned and preserved using different methods to ensure it remains safe and effective for medical use.
More effective patient care
OmniLenz® is a bandage contact lens designed to apply Omnigen® to the ocular surface in a 4-6 minute procedure in an outpatient setting.
How do we use the amniotic membrane for your eye care?
At Earlam and Christopher we primarily offer an amniotic membrane onlay (patch) for the treatment of dry eye disease, where the membrane can be used as a temporary cover to protect the eye while it heals. The membrane is held in place by a soft contact lens. This is usually for one week. The membrane can provide relief and help restore the eye’s surface within this time. The temporary onlay (patch) acts as a biological dressing to protect the eye and provides a supportive environment to facilitate natural healing and recovery.
See below how this has helped one of our patients dramatically …
This is another tool to help our patients who suffer from Dry Eye Disease. If you are suffering from this condition please do contact us and we can talk about what will help you.