OSM560-April_DIGITAL_rev_Layout 1 4/8/13 11:08 AM Page 104
O P H T H A L M O L O G Y
ued the use of YAG lasers to perform vitreolysis.
But the issue of vitreous strands and opacities remains, and patients
want a solution. Indeed, a study found that many sufferers rate the disturbance caused by vitreous strands and opacities on the same level as
colon cancer or age-related macular degeneration. To fill this market
need, Ellex developed a YAG laser designed just for the posterior segment, for the purpose of visualizing and removing these debilitating
opacities. But the Ultra-Q Reflex YAG laser can also be used in the
anterior segment, so your facility gets expanded procedure capabiliCOMING SOON
SLT and YAG Laser Combo
T
his summer, Ellex will launch the Tango SLT/YAG Combination System, for which
it recently received FDA 510(k) marketing clearance. Featuring a patented, proprietary, dual-mode laser cavity, the Tango combines a full-featured selective laser
trabeculoplasty (SLT) laser with a precise, powerful Nd:YAG laser for performing iridotomy — which can help surgeons better manage POAG and PACG. The physician can switch between SLT and YAG modes at the touch of a button.
According to the company, the Tango is the world's fastest SLT laser, with
a firing rate of 3 hertz. The device has been life-tested to
deliver 400,000 shots.
It seems to me the quicker firing rate could improve healing
time and overall patient recovery. But remember that combination
systems come with pros and cons. On the positive side, you've got
only 1 laser unit, which decreases the need for valuable
floor space and can reduce the amount you spend on
maintenance. Surgeons love the convenience of
being able to sit a patient down and do 2 procedures in 1
session. On the downside, if the unit goes down, you're out of
luck for all procedures until it's fixed.
— Lisa Waters, RN
Tango SLT/YAG
Ellex
ellex.com/usa
1 0 4 | O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E | A P R I L 2 013
