FDA Approves Zeiss MEL 90 Excimer Laser and Accepts Revised sNDA for Izervay
This week, the FDA approved the Zeiss MEL 90 excimer laser for myopia, hyperopia, and mixed astigmatism, and accepted a revised supplemental New Drug Application for Izervay, targeting geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration. Additionally, a new report from The Vision Council sheds light on eye care providers' frame buying habits, and a study highlights the link between dietary inflammation and non-refractive visual impairment.
The FDA has granted approval to the excimer laser MEL 90 from Zeiss Meditech, marking a significant advancement in the treatment of myopia, hyperopia, and mixed astigmatism. This laser integrates seamlessly into the Corneal Refractive Workflow from Zeiss, complementing the Visumax 800 and SMILE pro software to enhance surgical correction outcomes. The MEL 90 is now available in the US, offering a streamlined approach to refractive surgery.
In another pivotal development, the FDA has accepted the revised supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for Izervay (avacincaptad pegol intravitreal solution), aimed at treating geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This acceptance follows a Complete Response Letter from the FDA in November 2024 and a subsequent meeting between the FDA and Astellas. The application has been designated as a Class 1 resubmission, with a target action date set for February 26, 2025.
A new research report from The Vision Council, titled 'Focused inSights 2024: Frame Buyers,' provides an in-depth analysis of how eye care providers select and source eyeglasses frames. The report covers various aspects, including the frequency of purchases, sourcing locations, and preferences for frame styles and materials, offering valuable insights into the industry's supply chain dynamics.
A study conducted by Chinese researchers has identified a positive association between the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and non-refractive visual impairment in the US population. This type of visual impairment results from ocular diseases rather than the eye's shape, highlighting the importance of dietary considerations in eye health.
The American Optometric Association (AOA) has published the first edition of 'Care of the Patient with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma,' an evidence-based clinical practice guideline. This guideline aims to enhance the quality of healthcare by providing optometrists with a scientific foundation for diagnosing and treating patients with primary open-angle glaucoma, ensuring that care is based on the latest research.

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What happened in optometry this week: January 13 - January 17
optometrytimes.com · Jan 18, 2025
FDA approved Zeiss MEL 90 excimer laser for myopia, hyperopia, and mixed astigmatism. The Vision Council's report analyz...