Apparatus for phototherapy of the eye

Abstract

A device and method for applying light to the cornea of the eye as, for example, to promote crosslinking of collagen in the cornea for vision correction. The device may include a structure having form and size similar to a conventional contact lens. The structure may include an optically dispersive element such as a mass of an optically dispersive material that may be contained in a cavity of a reflective element. Light applied to the dispersive mass as, for example, by an optical fiber connected to the structure is dispersed in the structure and passes into the cornea. The patient may blink or close the eye during the procedure, which increases patient comfort and aids in maintaining hydration of the cornea.

1 . A method of applying light to the eye of a subject comprising directing light in a direction generally parallel to the surface of the cornea of the eye within an optically dispersive element overlying the surface of the cornea so that light dispersed by the element passes out of the element and into the cornea.