New software version enhances family of phaco platforms

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ACTIVATE System Control Software for the Stellaris Vision Enhancement System (“Stellaris”) and Stellaris PC (all Bausch + Lomb) includes 41 additional features and controls that collectively enhance the performance of the two systems and make them even easier to use. 

By Cheryl Guttman Krader; Reviewed by R. Bruce Wallace III, MD

ACTIVATE System Control Software, a recently released software upgrade for the Stellaris Vision Enhancement System (“Stellaris”) and Stellaris PC (all Bausch + Lomb), builds on what is already superior phacoemulsification technology, according to R. Bruce Wallace III, MD.

ACTIVATE includes 41 additional features and controls for the Stellaris and Stellaris PC systems. Among the highlights, it combines the software platforms for Stellaris and Stellaris PC into one, providing for file transportability between the two machines and shared functionalities, including endoillumination for use during cataract surgery and 5000 CPM anterior vitrectomy with Stellaris PC.

In addition, the software brings enhancements to the performance of the units’ proprietary infusion control system (DigiFlow) as well as their on-screen user controls, drop-down menus, and messaging features.

“ACTIVATE increases versatility and convenience for Stellaris/Stellaris PC users and further improves the fluidics system (StableChamber Fluidics), which to me was already the most impressive feature making these machines stand out from the competition,” said Dr. Wallace, founder and medical director, Wallace Eye Surgery, Laser and Surgery Center, Alexandria, LA.

Changes implemented with ACTIVATE improve the performance of the platforms’ sensors and make the response of the StableChamber Fluidics system even faster and more fluid. Those enhancements translate into even greater anterior chamber stability and surgeon control. Now, the speed at which the computer in Stellaris and Stellaris PC responds to signals from the sensors is designed to be faster than that of any competitor’s machine.

“What matters most for safe phacoemulsification is the ability of the phaco machine’s computer to monitor the conditions in the anterior chamber and control the responses of the unit’s fluidics system,” Dr. Wallace said.

“I was only introduced to Stellaris a few years ago, but I was immediately blown away by the quality of the StableChamber Fluidics and how the Bausch + Lomb engineers were able to take the vacuum pump technology, which is essential for vitrectomy, and tame it for anterior segment surgeons. Now, ACTIVATE makes this sophisticated, state-of-the art system even better.”

Having one software system that manages both Stellaris and Stellaris PC is an advantage for surgeons who operate at multiple sites so that they can easily transfer settings onto whatever machine is available to them. It also makes it easier for sales representatives and application specialists to input new settings and customize machines for surgeons.

“Marrying the software for our phacoemulsification and vitrectomy/phacoemulsification unit into one customer-transferrable procedural file makes Bausch + Lomb unique as this feature is not available with the technology from any other manufacturers,” said Roeland Papen, MS, director of marketing, equipment, Bausch + Lomb, Santa Ana, CA.

Changes to the on-screen displays and controls took into account observations on how surgeons and staff were using the platforms. They include modifications that allow for better ergonomics, such as larger and more sensitive buttons on the touchscreen. As another new feature, surgeons can also label the different phases of the procedure with names of their own choosing.

In addition, although the Stellaris/Stellaris PC user interface was already highly intuitive, enhanced messaging features and integrated video instruction guides make the platforms even more user-friendly. In particular, they allow for increased clarity and ease of use by personnel who lack extensive training with Stellaris/Stellaris PC. Therefore, technicians or nurses who do not usually assist with cataract surgery can successfully step in as needed in the case of emergency surgery.

Speaking to other assets and unique features found on Stellaris, Dr. Wallace noted that its vacuum pump makes it particularly well suited for use in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery procedures because it allows surgeons to overcome the challenges of cortex removal.

“Use of a femtosecond laser for nuclear fragmentation can leave behind thicker cortex. Stellaris is able to gobble that up quite easily using just a standard I&A handpiece,” he said.

Dr. Wallace also highlighted the wireless dual linear foot pedal technology found on Stellaris/Stellaris PC that permits control of two functions, and pointed out that Bausch + Lomb was the industry innovator for using pressurized infusion on its phaco machine.

“Often surgeons get tied to the phaco platform from a particular manufacturer and lose touch with what else is out there. Based on my own experience, I would say surgeons who have not tried Stellaris don’t realize what they may be missing,” he said.

R. Bruce Wallace III, MD

E: Rbw123@aol.com

Dr. Wallace is a consultant to Bausch + Lomb.