AMO introduces three refractive technologies in Europe

Santa Ana, CA-Advanced Medical Optics Inc. (AMO) launched three refractive technologies to the European market at the annual meeting of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons in Stockholm, Sweden. A one-piece IOL (Tecnis 1-Piece) and a multifocal acrylic IOL (Tecnis Multifocal) were introduced for the first time in any market, and a phacoemulsification system (WhiteStar Signature) that was launched in the United States in April at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery was introduced in the European market.

The one-piece lens aims to reduce spherical aberration and improve functional vision. Its design includes a 360° edge with an uninterrupted barrier edge to minimize cell migration onto the posterior capsule; no interruption at the haptic-optic junction; a frosted edge to minimize edge glare; and three-point fixation to address stability issues. It is made of a hydrophobic acrylic material that blocks ultraviolet (UV) light.

AMO expects to launch the one-piece IOL in the United States in the first half of 2008.

The multifocal IOL, which has been available in a silicone material for 3 years, now is available in a hydrophobic acrylic material in Europe. The material helps lower chromatic dispersion for improved vision, according to the company.

The lens uses a patented, wavefront-designed aspheric surface to compensate for spherical aberration of the cornea. It is the only lens on the market designed to correct both spherical aberration and chromatic aberration, according to the company.

Its full diffractive posterior surface allows a full range of quality vision, independent of pupil size, allowing the lens to perform well in low-light situations, according to the company. It also is made of a hydrophobic acrylic material that blocks UV light.

The new phacoemulsification system features a streamlined user interface and accessories designed to enhance the efficiency of the operating room environment. Fluidics technology offers high flow and vacuum capabilities. Other features include a one-step auto-loading tubing pack, a faster prime cycle, a touch screen designed to be more intuitive, a wireless foot pedal, voice confirmation, and greater ease of programming, according to the company. Also, a surgical media center offers real-time blending of system data and surgical video; customized viewing of procedures and data; high-definition, customizable presentation capability; and a frame-by-frame teaching tool.