Alcon launches aspheric lens outside U.S.

Key Points

Berlin-Alcon Inc. announced the commercial launch outside the United States of its new +3 add power aspheric lens (AcrySof ReSTOR) during the annual meeting of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.

Clinical trial results demonstrated that the +3 add power IOL optimally manages light energy delivered to the retina regardless of the lighting situation to provide patients with high-resolution image quality and minimal visual disturbances, said the company in a prepared statement. At the 3-month follow-up exam, 95% of patients had combined distance-corrected visual acuities of 20/40 or better. The clinical studies also showed a high rate of patient satisfaction, with 96% of patients saying they would have the lens implanted again, according to the company.

"Advanced-technology IOLs that correct for presbyopia or astigmatism are the fastest-growing segment in the IOL market," said Kevin Buehler, senior vice president, global markets and chief marketing officer, Alcon. "The addition of [this aspheric lens] provides surgeons with an additional IOL option to meet the clinical needs of their patients and further enhances our leadership position in this category."