Alcon acquires LenSx for use in anterior capsulotomy and laser phacofragmentation during cataract surgery

Huenenberg, Switzerland-- Alcon, Inc. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire femtosecond laser pioneer LenSx Lasers, Inc. to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration clearance for use as a part of cataract surgery. Indicated for anterior capsulotomy and laser phacofragmentation during cataract surgery, the LenSx system is said to provide a complementary surgical approach to certain manual steps within the traditional cataract procedure, and enable surgeons to perform the delicate, manual steps with image-guided visualization and micron-level laser precision. The LenSx laser enhances a surgeon's ability to predictably create a well-centered anterior capsulorhexis of exact diameter, and to effectively fragment the lens for removal with minimized phaco time and power.

"This laser delivered improved post-surgical refractive outcomes for my patients with a more exact size, shape and centration of the capsulotomy and precise centering of the intraocular lens," said Stephen Slade, M.D., Slade and Baker Vision, Houston, TX, who performed the initial series of LenSx laser procedures in the United States. "I was able to reduce the phacoemulsification energy and time—further enhancing cataract surgery by providing a safe and more accurate refractive outcome."

Under the terms of the agreement, Alcon will pay US $361.5 million in cash at closing to LenSx shareholders for their shares, plus maximum contingent payments of US $382.5 million based upon the achievement and over-achievement of future femtosecond unit and procedure fee revenue milestones. Acquisition closing is subject to receipt of required regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.