Bausch + Lomb launches advanced dual-port vitrectomy cutter in Europe

Bausch + Lomb Corporation has announced the European launch of its advanced dual-port vitrectomy cutter (Bi-Blade+) for use with the proprietary vision enhancement system (Stellaris Elite).¹ The European launch follows US FDA 510(k) clearance for Bi-Blade+ and the Adaptive Fluidics advanced update on the Stellaris Elite system, which was announced in April 2026.²

Performance and safety profile

The device is reported to provide a 25% increase in flow rate compared with its predecessor, based on ex vivo and in vitro testing, enabling more efficient vitreous removal.¹ At maximum speed, the device also demonstrates a 62% reduction in cutter vibration compared with Bi-Blade, according to the company.¹

Luc Bonnefoy, president of Surgical at Bausch + Lomb, commented on the launch: “The launch of Bi-Blade+ is the latest example of our commitment to delivering meaningful innovation in Europe. Stellaris Elite has long been relied upon by European surgeons, and the 2024 Adaptive Fluidics software upgrade further enhanced the precise control and efficiency of the platform. We're confident that the addition of Bi-Blade+ will also deliver meaningful benefits to retina surgeons and their patients.”¹

The Stellaris Elite platform incorporates Adaptive Fluidics technology, which automates fluid infusion to the eye in response to real-time vacuum commands from the surgeon. According to Bausch + Lomb, when the advanced dual-port vitrectomy cutter is used in combination with Adaptive Fluidics, the system demonstrated a 62% reduction in average infusion pressure compared with surgeries in which Adaptive Fluidics was not used, based on ex vivo and in vitro data.¹ One study reported that the combination resulted in a statistically significant improvement in chamber intraocular pressure (IOP) at a range closer to physiologic IOP (10 mm Hg to 20 mm Hg) even during high vacuum levels.³

Professor Marco Mura, MD, of the University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy, noted the clinical relevance of the higher cut rate: “The higher cut rate of Bi-Blade+ offers a significant advantage when removing vitreous. The ability to increase flow rate while maintaining a small sphere of influence and calm environment means surgeons can have more confidence when working close to the retina.”¹

The device’s accessories are compatible exclusively with Stellaris Elite vision enhancement systems with Bi-Blade+ procedure pack compatibility. The vitrectomy cutter is indicated for any ocular condition requiring anterior vitrectomy during anterior segment surgery and for any vitreoretinal condition requiring vitrectomy during posterior or combined surgery, according to the company’s prescribing information.¹

Known risks associated with vitrectomy cutter use include infection, inflammation, ocular damage, trauma, cataract formation, foreign body or particulates in the eye, IOP variance, visual impairment, ischaemia, allergic reaction and oedema.¹

References

1. Bausch + Lomb launches Bi-Blade+ dual-port vitrectomy cutter in Europe. Businesswire. News release. May 7, 2026. Accessed May 8, 2026. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260507552089/en/Bausch-Lomb-Launches-Bi-Blade-Dual-Port-Vitrectomy-Cutter-in-Europe

2. Bausch + Lomb receives FDA 510(k) clearance for Bi-Blade+ dual-port vitrectomy cutter and Adaptive Fluidics advanced update. Businesswire. News release. April 8, 2026. Accessed May 8, 2026. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260408564994/en/Bausch-Lomb-Receives-FDA-510k-Clearance-for-Bi-Blade-Dual-Port-Vitrectomy-Cutter-and-Adaptive-Fluidics-Advanced-Update

3. Papour A, Hosten L. Intraocular pressure (IOP) optimized performance settings with posterior adaptive fluidics (PAF) and 25-gauge 25,000 cpm dual-action vitrectomy cutters. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2024;65(7). Abstract 914.