FDA approves toric IOL for cataract patients

Fort Worth, TX-The FDA has given Alcon Laboratories Inc. its approval to market the AcrySof toric IOL for use in cataract patients with pre-existing corneal astigmatism.

The new lens is based on the AcrySof single-piece IOL design with the same acrylic material. Its optical design offers improved distance visual outcomes, the company said.

"Approval of the AcrySof toric IOL is an important addition to our AcrySof IOL product portfolio and further demonstrates our commitment to helping cataract surgeons achieve the best possible outcomes," said Robert J. Stevens, vice president, surgical products research and development.

Alcon also said in a prepared statement that it will seek FDA approval of a blue-light-absorbing chromophore to be incorporated into the lens.