ZEISS Medical Technology has achieved a significant milestone with the approval of its VISUMAX 800 with SMILE pro software by China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for treating nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism. This advancement comes as the SMILE technology reaches a global milestone of over 10 million treated eyes worldwide, demonstrating strong adoption across Asia, Europe, and the U.S.
Advanced Technology for Enhanced Surgical Outcomes
The VISUMAX 800 represents a substantial leap forward in laser vision correction technology. The system's 2 MHz laser pulse repetition rate enables lenticule creation in under 10 seconds, significantly reducing procedure time and patient stress. This enhanced speed doesn't compromise the system's precision, maintaining ZEISS's commitment to surgical excellence.
Maximilian Foerst, Head of ZEISS Greater China, emphasizes the timing of this approval: "With the growing interest in laser vision correction in China, the market needs innovative technology that enhances surgical outcomes, safety and efficiency to benefit both surgeons and their patients."
Innovative Workflow Enhancements
The system introduces several key technological advances that improve surgical workflow and precision:
- CentraLign centration aid: A computer-controlled function facilitating easier centration
- OcuLign cyclotorsion adjustment: Technology to counter potential cyclotorsion during surgery
- VISULYZE user nomograms: Advanced tools for patient data collection, analysis, and surgical control
Practical Clinical Benefits
Magnus Reibenspiess, Head of Strategic Business Unit Ophthalmology at ZEISS Medical Technology, highlights the system's broader impact: "This next-generation femtosecond laser system creates data-driven insights to help surgeons better manage treatment paths for patients while supporting each surgeon's unique practice requirements."
The VISUMAX 800's compact design and compatibility with various patient beds offer greater flexibility in clinical settings. This adaptability ensures that practices can integrate cutting-edge technology without compromising their existing infrastructure or workflow.
Market Impact and Future Prospects
The approval marks a significant expansion of advanced refractive surgery options in China's growing vision correction market. With its combination of faster treatment times, enhanced precision, and improved workflow capabilities, the VISUMAX 800 with SMILE pro software positions ZEISS to meet the evolving needs of refractive surgeons and their patients across China.
