AMO acquires OptiMedica for laser cataract surgery

Abbott Medical Optics (AMO) has announced the acquisition of OptiMedica, enabling expansion into the laser cataract surgery market.

The company will acquire OptiMedica for $250 million plus additional payments totalling almost $150 million. OptiMedica will allow AMO to access the Catalys Precision Laser System, which is designed to replace some of the technical demanding manual steps in cataract surgery.

The precise, computer-guided femtosecond laser system can be used to perform capsulotomies, phacofragmentation and incisions for ocular surgery. Catalys has receieved the CE Mark in Europe and approval from the FDA.

Murthy Simhambhatia, senior vice president at AMO, commented, “The acquisition of OptiMedica will provide Abbott with an entry point into the rapidly developing laser cataract surgery market. The Catalys laser system provides physicians with a state-of-the-art, computer-guided alternative in treating patients suffering from cataracts.”