Alcon Looking at looking at EDOF and IOL Technology
Michael Onuscheck, global surgical franchise head for Alcon, a Novartis company, outlined the firm’s approach to innovation within the premium channel, which involves both internal development and external partnerships and acquisitions. In this decade, the focus of cataract innovation has shifted from safety, efficacy, and efficiency/throughput to refractive outcomes and meeting patients’ expectations with respect to vision and independence. Alcon has recently launched the UltraSert pre-loaded IOL (intraocular lens) system globally and the PanOptix trifocal IOL outside the US. The company is also looking at extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) technology and is developing next-generation IOL platforms and materials. In April, Alcon announced a strategic alliance with PowerVision, Inc. Alcon’s investment in PowerVision will fund further development of the company’s FluidVision fluid-based accommodating IOL technology, and will provide Alcon the option to acquire the firm. Alcon also has a relationship with ClarVista Medical, which is developing a modular IOL platform.
Alcon has been very active on the M&A front in recent years, having acquired a number of technologies that are now part of the company’s Cataract Refractive Suite, including the LenSx femtosecond laser, ORA intraoperative aberrometry system, Verion image-guided system, and Luxor ophthalmic microscope. The focus going forward will be on integrating the full suite to improve simplicity and ease-of-use for the clinician.
Presenter:
Michael Onuscheck
Mr. Onuscheck joined Alcon in January 2015 from Boston Scientific, where he spent 10 years in leadership positions of increasing responsibility. Most recently Mr. Onuscheck held the position of President of Boston Scientific, overseeing the company’s business operations in Europe and Russia.