Date: Jul 08, 2009 Source: NIH Success Stories (
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Technology Developed:
Avedro, Inc. has developed Keraflex™, an incision-less vision correction procedure enabled by advanced proprietary technology. Keraflex, which uses focused microwave energy to gently reshape the front surface of the cornea, will represent a unique offering in vision correction as it does not require the creation of a flap in the cornea nor does it involve the removal of any corneal tissue. This well differentiated procedure profile is likely to be particularly appealing to low-to-moderate myopes seeking an alternative to glasses and contact lenses.
Uses of Technology/Products/Service:
About 30% of the U.S. population requires correction for myopia (nearsightedness). Keraflex shrinks the superficial layer of the cornea in a ring pattern around the pupil in response to elevation of temperature by absorption of microwave energy. The central region of the cornea flattens as a result, thus correcting for myopia. The novel method offers numerous advantages over the most common surgical treatment for myopia, LASIK (laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis):
• No surgical intervention • Minimal discomfort • Minimal period of healing • Involves only a single, 5 minute procedure • No loss of the cornea's biomechanical integrity • Avoids dry eye complication
Benefit to Company:
The SBIR program funded development of the Vedera KXS, the system for delivering Keraflex treatment. The Vedera KXS includes a computer controlled microwave power source, housed in a control console, and coupled to the patient interface pod (PIP). The user interface includes a keyboard and display. A handheld Keraflex Targeting Stage and Applicator plug into the PIP. The Applicator precisely delivers microwave energy to the cornea, while cooling the surface of the cornea to minimize damage to the endothelium. The system was thoroughly characterized through ex vivo studies, allowing optimization of the device configuration and treatment parameters. The Vedera KXS is now being tested on humans with promising initial results in clinical studies outside the U.S.
