Autologous serum tears deliver multiple growth factors to the ocular surface, treating ocular surface disease beyond the temporary lubrication offered by artificial tears.
By understanding the actions of growth factors, we can better manage ocular surface therapy for patients.

Growth factors are naturally occurring molecules that regulate cellular growth, proliferation, healing, and differentiation. The ocular surface depends on a complex interplay of these factors to coordinate inflammatory responses and cellular repair processes and maintain a healthy ocular surface.

We provide this therapy to our patient using Vital Tears.  

How are serum tears made? 
1. Blood Collection:  A small sample of the patient’s blood is drawn by a trained phlebotomist, either at a partnering lab or via our mobile phlebotomy service.
2. Serum Separation: The blood is allowed to clot, then centrifuged to isolate the serum—the clear, nutrient-rich liquid portion.
3. Dilution: The serum is diluted with balanced salt solution according to the concentration ordered by the eye care provider. The typical serum concentration ranges from 20 to 100 percent.
4. Packaging and Delivery: The final product is dispensed into sterile dropper bottles and shipped directly to the patient within 48 hours of the blood draw.

How are Vital Tears stored?
Because Vital Tears are made from biological material and are preservative free, they must be kept refrigerated.

Are Vital Tears covered by insurance?
While some insurance companies reimburse for Vital Tears when patients submit a claim, generally Vital Tears is a self-pay service. Vital Tears support teams can provide forms to help you submit a claim to your insurance provider. You may contact Patient Services at 800.360.9592 for more information.

 

At Envision Optometry, we take a personalized approach to dry eye care and can help determine whether Vital Tears fit into your treatment plan.

Schedule a dry eye evaluation to find out whether Vital Tears may be appropriate for your eyes.
Call us or Book Online now.