Abbott won FDA approval for the Tecnis Symfony intraocular lenses that are implanted during cataract surgeries. These are the first such lenses available in the U.S. that have a large range of focus and can even help people with presbyopia see things at a close range. This can help some patients avoid having to wear glasses in a variety of situations. Additionally, one of the lenses in the approved lineup is the Tecnis Symfony Toric IOL for those also suffering from astigmatism.
Exiting available intraocular lenses only focus into the distance, making it difficult to see nearby objects. The Tecnis Symphony has a complex shape that expands this range to include closer distances.
These lenses have already been approved in over 50 countries, studies in which showed the device to provide improved vision in different light conditions and low levels of halo and glare.
From the announcement:
The approval was based on results of a U.S. pivotal study that compared the Tecnis Symfony lens to a Tecnis aspheric monofocal lens in 298 patients. Compared with patients in the monofocal group, those who received a Tecnis Symfony IOL achieved greater improvements in intermediate and near vision while maintaining similar distance vision. Patients in the Symfony group were also more likely to achieve reduced overall spectacle wear and high overall visual performance in any lighting condition. Rates of adverse events did not differ between the Symfony and monofocal groups.
Press release: Abbott…
