Japan Approves New Device for Eye Surgery

The Stellaris Procedural Choice (PC) Vision Enhancement System, which facilitates both vitreoretinal and cataract surgery in a single system, has been approved in Japan, according to a written release from the manufacturer

Bausch and Lomb Japan and Topcon Medical Japan will partner to jointly launch their ophthalmic surgical products in Japan. According to Bausch and Lomb, vitreoretinal surgery is performed on about 100,000 patients each year in that country for conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment, which can cause blindness if untreated.

Bausch and Lomb announced the introduction of the new system to retinal surgeons in the United States in August 2010. The device was previously introduced to cataract surgeons in 2007.

The device can be used for cataract surgery, vitreoretinal surgery, or a combination of both procedures. Because cataract and vitreoretinal surgeries are also often performed simultaneously, the launch of the system in Japan will provide a state-of-the-art, single unit for performing both surgical procedures, according to the manufacturer.

The manufacturer also reports that the device will lower cost and space requirements in the operating room, and the small incision size required is expected to reduce the patient's postsurgical recovery time.

"Stellaris PC is a next generation product that will evolve the surgical landscape in Japan by providing the most advanced technology for both vitreoretinal and cataract surgery in a single system," noted Hiroshi Fukuzawa, Eye Care Business Unit director, executive managing director, and operating officer, Topcon Medical Japan, in a company new release.

COURTESY:

MEDSCAPE