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Comparative Effects of USB-Powered Warm Compress and Self-Heating Eye Mask in the Management of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

NCT07618169 · Status: COMPLETED · Phase: NA · Type: INTERVENTIONAL · Enrollment: 15

Last updated 2026-06-01

No results posted yet for this study

Summary

Why was this study done?

People with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) often have dry, irritated eyes because the tiny oil glands in their eyelids do not work properly. Applying gentle heat to the eyelids is a common way to improve the flow of oil and relieve symptoms.

This study wanted to find out whether a USB-powered warm compress or a self-heating disposable eye mask works better and feels more comfortable for patients with MGD.

Who took part?

Adults diagnosed with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction were invited to participate. Each person tried both treatments, one after the other, with a short break between them (this is called a crossover design).

What did participants do?

In one treatment phase, participants used a USB-powered warm compress for about 10 minutes per day over two weeks.

In the other phase, they used a self-heating disposable eye mask for the same amount of time.

The order of treatments was randomized to avoid bias.

Before and after each treatment, eye tests and comfort questionnaires were completed.

What did the study measure?

The main goal was to see if the treatments improved:

Tear film stability (how long the tears stay on the eye surface)

Meibomian gland function (how well the glands release oil)

Eye comfort and dryness symptoms

What were the results?

Both the USB-powered warm compress and the self-heating eye mask helped improve tear stability and comfort.

However, the USB-powered device provided slightly better results in improving gland function and patient satisfaction.

No serious side effects or discomfort were reported.

What do these results mean?

Regular eyelid warming is an effective way to manage MGD and dry eye symptoms. Both devices are safe and easy to use, but a USB-powered warm compress may offer stronger and more consistent heat for better results.

Patients and eye-care professionals can choose the device that best fits daily routines, comfort, and lifestyle.

Who conducted the study?

The study was carried out by optometrists and vision scientists specializing in ocular surface disease and dry eye therapy.

It followed ethical approval and was reviewed by an institutional research board before beginning.

Why is this study important?

MGD is one of the most common causes of dry eye disease worldwide. Understanding which home-based treatment works best helps patients, families, and clinicians make informed choices about safe and effective care options.

Conditions

  • Dry Eye
  • MGD-Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Interventions

DEVICE

USB-Powered Warm Compress

A constant-temperature device delivering controlled eyelid warming (≈40°C) for 10 minutes daily for 2 weeks.

DEVICE

Self-Heating Eye Mask

A disposable eye mask activated by air oxidation, generating warmth (\~40°C) for 10 minutes daily for 2 weeks.

Sponsors & Collaborators

  • King Saud University

    lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

  • Ali M ALSAQR, PHD · King Saud University

Study Design

Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Model
CROSSOVER

Eligibility

Min Age
18 Years
Max Age
40 Years
Sex
ALL
Healthy Volunteers
No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start
2025-01-05
Primary Completion
2025-05-30
Completion
2025-05-30

Countries

  • Saudi Arabia

Study Locations

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Read the full study record

This page highlights key information. For complete eligibility criteria, study locations, investigator contacts, and the full protocol, visit the original record on ClinicalTrials.gov.

View NCT07618169 on ClinicalTrials.gov