Historical Archives

FOR RELEASE 9/12/2008, Friday

Bausch & Lomb Introduces the Crystalens® HD Accommodating Intraocular Lens to Europe at ESCRS 2008

BERLIN, GERMANY — Bausch & Lomb is introducing its accommodating intraocular lens (IOL), the Crystalens HD, in Europe at the XXV Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS), which begins this weekend in Berlin.

The Crystalens HD, which received CE mark approval in August 2008, is the fourth generation of the only FDA-approved accommodating intraocular lens. The Crystalens HD lens was launched onto the U.S. market in July, superceding the Crystalens Five-O model, which has already been implanted in over 100,000 patients. The optic of the HD lens provides an enhanced depth of focus which is designed to improve near vision without compromising intermediate or distance vision. The HD lens does this without inducing increased undesirable dysphotopsia or night vision symptoms.

In the FDA study, a total of 125 primary eyes were implanted with the Crystalens HD in patients who had a visually significant cataract, less than 1 diopter of corneal astigmatism, and the potential for best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/25 or better in both eyes. Of the 67 subjects who were within ± 0.50 D of intended target, 80% achieved J2 or better at 4-6 months.

“The availability of the Crystalens HD lens represents a major addition to our European IOL platform, now able to serve the growing demand for presbyopia solutions. This premium IOL will provide surgeons and patients with more treatment options, whilst ensuring patients continue to benefit from the quality of vision already provided by our Akreos® Advanced Optics IOLs, the Akreos AO and Akreos Micro Incision Lenses,” said Mike Riding, vice president, Surgical, Europe, Middle East and Africa.

The initial limited launch of the Crystalens HD lens in Europe will be followed by a full-scale rollout planned for the second quarter of 2009.

Leading refractive and cataract surgeon, Dr. Mertens Belgium, commented, “Patients enjoy the increased depth of focus of the Crystalens IOL and the superb night vision while increasing their freedom from spectacles.”

Dr. Erik Mertens will be presenting the first European experience with the Crystalens IOL at Bausch & Lomb’s Refractive Symposium, scheduled for Saturday, 13 September at the Berlin Congress Centre.

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About Bausch & Lomb
Bausch & Lomb is the eye health company dedicated to perfecting vision and enhancing life for consumers around the world. Its core businesses include soft and rigid gas permeable contact lenses and lens care products, and ophthalmic surgical and pharmaceutical products. The Bausch & Lomb name is one of the best known and most respected healthcare brands in the world. Founded in 1853, the company is headquartered in Rochester, N.Y., and employs approximately 13,000 people worldwide. Its products are available in more than 100 countries. More information about the Company can be found at www.bausch.com.

Crystalens and Akreos are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.