ZEISS Medical Technology (Carl Zeiss Meditic AG) has introduced a new lens extraction technology: the MICOR 700 from ZEISS, designed as the first hand-held lens removal device with ultrasound-free operation.
Give me the rundown on this new product.
Marketed as providing “gentle lens extraction” and a “gentler patient experience” via its advanced features, the MICOR 700 is intended to be used during the ZEISS NULEX (non-ultrasonic lens extraction) procedure.
- About NULEX: This procedure is intended to deliver less thermal energy compared to phacoemulsification as well as minimizes the risk of thermal damage to ocular tissue.
Plus: The device includes a tip that’s designed for greater sensitivity when in contact with the surrounding tissue than standard phaco tips.
- See here for device specifications.
Let’s talk advanced features.
Key to this device is the use of a patented crystalline lens extraction technology.
What this enables: Essentially, this refers to MICOR’s design as a handheld, single-use, fluidic system that removes a lens—as well as a novel method that allows the device to remove the lens without needing to use ultrasound.
- This novel method—referred to as “cavitation-free oscillation”—is achieved via the asymmetric movement of the cutter tube, according to the company.
So what do clinicians think about the MICOR 700?
A November 2023 post-approval user survey conducted on the device polled a total of 21 surgeons who participated in the U.S. early access program and used the MICOR 700 in clinical practice.
ZEISS noted that the surgeons’ responses “confirmed that the blunt and rounded tip contributes to a gentler behavior towards the surrounding tissue,” and that the device “increases the comfort zone for maneuvering of the capsular bag.”
And its efficiency?
The device’s disposable “plug-and-play” system is intended to ensure “convenience, efficiency, and simplicity” for surgeons in the operating room.
How this setup works: Each MICOR extractor is packaged in a sterile blister pack that requires only one connection (via the MICOR drive) and is plugged into a balanced salt solution (BSS) source.
- Note: A BSS is a sterile solution comprising sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride ions; and is often used as an irrigation solution during intraocular (IO) surgery (as well as to replace IO fluids).
What else to know about this?
The fluidics system—which is, most notably, single-use and fully disposable.
Why this is important: Not only does this enable a quick setup and breakdown of the device for surgeons, but it also saves time throughout the surgical day
- As a bonus: Because the system isn’t used more than once, it also prevents any potential risks for cross-contamination.
And how does it fit into ZEISS’s portfolio?
The device can be used in the company’s cataract solutions portfolio, according to Euan S. Thomson, PhD, president of Ophthalmology Strategic Business Unit and head of the Digital Business Unit for ZEISS Medical Technology.
How this portfolio works: As part of the ZEISS Medical Ecosystem, the workflow connects the company’s devices, data, and applications to (ideally) enable a “seamless integration from office OTR and back” for surgeons’ cataract procedures.
- Check out what technology is included in the workflow.
Nice! Can I see a demonstration of how the MICOR 700 works?
Yes you can … in fact, two real-world demonstrations of the device in action can be viewed here.
And if you’re attending the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting next month, check out the ZEISS booth (#5221) for a demonstration (reserve a slot here).
Academy 2024 kicks off Oct. 18-21 in Chicago, Illinois.
… And if I’m not?
According to ZEISS, the MICOR 700 is available for distribution across the United States.