Non-Surgical Procedures: A Surgery-Free Alternative

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vialase’s FLigHT Procedure offers New Hope for Glaucoma treatment Without Incisions

Aliso Viejo, CA, july 3, 2025 – A New Era In Glaucoma Treatment has arrived, thanks to ViaLase. Their innovative FLigHT procedure, which stands for Femtosecond laser Image-Guided High-precision Trabeculotomy, is making waves by offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional glaucoma surgery. This groundbreaking approach utilizes precisely focused light pulses to create a microscopic channel, relieving pressure in the eye with no cutting or incisions involved.

The FLigHT Procedure: A Surgical Revolution Without Surgery

The FLigHT procedure offers a new approach to addressing glaucoma. The method uses focused light pulses to create a tiny channel in the eye’s drainage system to reduce pressure.

“This is a surgical procedure, but it’s not surgery,” stated Tibor Juhasz. “There’s no incision, no implant, no cutting open of the eye.The laser goes through the cornea, and you don’t even feel it.”

How FLigHT Works

Patients undergoing the FLigHT procedure experience a streamlined process. A specialized lens gently stabilizes the eye, while real-time imaging assists the surgeon in pinpointing the treatment area. The laser proceeds, creating a channel roughly the size of a dust grain in mere minutes.

The process is pain-free, requires no downtime, and leaves no visible wounds. Patients can typically resume their activities promptly following the procedure,with pressure-lowering effects lasting up to four years.

Did You Know? Glaucoma affects over 3 million people in the United States alone. Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing vision loss.

The Genesis of Innovation: From Lasik To Glaucoma Treatment

The creation of FLigHT was born out of years of dedicated research. Tibor Juhasz initially faced technological limitations when attempting to apply femtosecond lasers to glaucoma treatment.

During this period, he developed the laser technology that would later become IntraLase, a pioneering femtosecond laser used in LASIK surgery. In 2002, his work earned him the prestigious Berthold Leibinger Innovation Prize. By 2017, advancements in imaging and laser technology allowed him to revisit and adapt his innovations for glaucoma treatment.

Orange County: A Hub Of Innovation

The location was also a key factor in ViaLase’s early success. Orange county is “the center of the ophthalmic device industry,” according to Juhasz.

This strategic location allowed ViaLase to attract investments and talent, propelling the company forward. Clinical trials began in Hungary in late 2020, and in April 2024, ViaLase successfully closed a Series C round, securing approximately $40 million.

Pro Tip: Regular eye exams are essential for detecting glaucoma early. If you’re over 40, schedule an exam every 1-2 years.

What’s Next For Vialase And Flight?

ViaLase has obtained CE mark approval for their device, clearing the way for commercial launch in Europe this summer. Concurrently, the company is initiating a pivotal trial in the U.S., a crucial step toward securing FDA approval. This trial compares the FLigHT procedure against existing treatments.

“It’s helping people. It’s improving lives. That’s the most exciting part,” Juhasz says. “glaucoma may not kill you, but no one wants to go blind. If we can prevent that-if we can make it easy for people to keep their sight-that’s everything.”

He encourages othre researchers to persevere, noting that his work began in the mid-1990s. “It takes time. but if you believe in it, keep going.”

Feature	FLigHT Procedure	Traditional Glaucoma Surgery
Incision	No	Yes
Recovery Time	None	Weeks
Pain	None	Potential
Repeatable	Yes	Limited

How could this type of technology impact the future of other eye treatments?

What are the long-term implications of non-invasive procedures like FLigHT on patient care and healthcare costs?

Understanding Glaucoma: An Evergreen Outlook

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, frequently enough caused by abnormally high pressure in your eye. It’s one of the leading causes of blindness for people over the age of 60, but blindness from glaucoma can frequently enough be prevented with early treatment.

Types Of Glaucoma

• open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common form, where the drainage angle in the eye remains open, but the fluid drains too slowly.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Occurs when the iris blocks the drainage angle, leading to a sudden increase in eye pressure.
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure levels.

Preventative Measures

• Regular Eye Exams: Essential for early detection.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise and a balanced diet can contribute to eye health.
• Know Your Family History: Glaucoma can be hereditary.

Frequently asked Questions About Glaucoma And FLigHT