Alcon debuts WaveLight EX500 excimer laser

Chicago-Alcon Laboratories introduced its latest innovation in LASIK surgery technology, the WaveLight EX500 excimer laser, during the 2012 meeting of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

The excimer laser delivers an upgradable platform, with an advanced multi-dimensional 1,050-Hz tracker synchronized at 500 Hz, non-contact dynamic pachymetry, and a communication-ready small/sleek footprint. It also delivers a 500-Hz pulse frequency laser capable of a 1.4 sec/D ablation, making this excimer laser the fastest in the United States, the company said in a prepared statement.

“The added benefits and features of the WaveLight EX500 excimer laser are numerous and further demonstrate our commitment to bringing surgeons the most advanced technologies to meet a wide range of patient needs accurately and efficiently,” said Jim Thomas, vice president and general manager, Alcon U.S. Surgical business.

The laser was approved for sale in the United States by the FDA in the fourth quarter of 2011. This is the first refractive surgery innovation that Alcon has unveiled since its merger with Novartis in April 2011.

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