IQ 577 laser system now available to doctors

Iridex has commenced shipment of its IQ 577 laser systems which is designed to treat vision-threatening eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma.

According to the company, the IQ577 offers a number of benefits to both patient and doctors. For patients, the higher absorption in blood, combined with the lower scattering of the 577 nm yellow laser wavelength helps to reduce power requirements and any resultant patient discomfort. Doctors benefit from its easily understandable interface and wireless foot pedal controls.

“The integration of MicroPulse technology into the IQ 577 ensures that it will satisfy not only today’s clinical requirements, but also those of the future,” commented Iridex president and CEO Theodore A. Boutacoff in a press release. MicroPulse technology spares tissue by electronically ‘chopping’ each laser pulse into microsecond bursts.

“Also in contrast to the previous dye laser systems, the IQ 577 visualisation optics are substantially clearer and provides the ophthalmic laser surgeon with the ability to visually titrate subtle laser doses, which enhances preservation of viable tissue,” concluded Mr Boutacoff.