Alcon Receives European Approval for Pre-Loaded Intraocular Lens Delivery System to Treat Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery

Alcon has received European CE Mark for its AcrySof IQ Aspheric IOL with the UltraSert Pre-loaded Delivery System for patients undergoing cataract surgery. The new delivery system combines the control of a manually loaded device with the safety and convenience of a disposable, pre-loaded injector to optimize implantation of the AcrySof IQ Aspheric IOL. This approval follows the recent CE Mark for Alcon's trifocal presbyopia-correcting AcrySof IOL which was received in mid-June. More than three million cataract surgeries are performed each year in Europe.

"Alcon is committed to advancing cataract surgery through the continuous development of new technologies and processes," said Franck Leveiller, Alcon Surgical Head of Research & Development. "Every detail of the UltraSert Pre-loaded Delivery System has been engineered with the needs of surgeons, technicians and the outcomes for their patients in mind. By simplifying the device preparation and maximizing surgeon control in a single-use system, we have cleared the path for more streamlined procedures and potentially improved patient outcomes."

In cataract surgery, controlling the rate of delivery of the IOL when inserted into the eye is an important factor in achieving a successful cataract procedure. Alcon has addressed this factor in the UltraSert Pre-loaded Delivery System with the TensionGlideTM Plunger, a spring-controlled mechanism designed for a smooth, controlled delivery of the AcrySof IQ IOL into the capsular bag[2]. In addition, the UltraSert Pre-loaded Delivery System features a plunger tip which is designed to support consistent IOL folding and precise placement of the IOL into the capsular bag of the eye.

The design of the new UltraSert Pre-loaded Delivery System also helps to create a less invasive corneal incision during cataract surgery. The smaller nozzle tip allows for a corneal incision down to 2.2 mm for insertion of the IOL while the Depth GuardTM nozzle feature of the delivery system prevents the device from being inserted deeper into the incision than necessary, preserving the size of the original corneal incision.

"It is truly a step forward in pre-loaded delivery system technology," said Khiun Tjia, Senior Ophthalmologist, Isala Clinics, Zwolle, Netherlands. "Featuring an impressive array of innovations, the UltraSert System acts as an extension of the surgeon during the critical moment of implantation. It helps to maintain the integrity of the incision while facilitating smooth, consistent delivery of the proven AcrySof IQ Aspheric IOL."