FDA approves laser cataract removal

17 Jun 2002

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a laser-based cataract-removal system, according to Laser Corporation, based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Using the Nd:YAG system, surgeons should be able to remove cataracts more quickly, at a reduced cost and with a smaller incision compared with conventional methods, claims the company.

Called PhotoLysis, the system comprises a small, disposable handpiece that, according to the company, does not expose the eye to laser light. Laser Corporation also claims that the risk of thermal damage to the eye is effectively eliminated because the laser produces so little heat.

With an estimated 2.3 million cataract surgeries performed in the US each year, Laser Corporation's share price unsuprisingly rocketed following the announcement.

The FDA has also approved Sunrise Technologies' Hyperion LTK laser system for treatment of farsightedness. Hyperion had previously rejected the device because of inadequate labelling. MH