ViaLase
Overview
ViaLase, Inc. is a clinical-stage medical technology company that focuses on developing innovative solutions for glaucoma treatment. Founded by Tibor Juhasz, the company is based in Aliso Viejo, California. ViaLase has pioneered the use of femtosecond laser technology to create non-invasive treatment options for glaucoma, particularly Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG). As of March 25, 2024, the company has raised $45.2 million in funding over its lifespan to advance its technological developments and clinical trials.
Recent Developments
- July 30, 2024: ViaLase received CE Mark approval for its groundbreaking ViaLase Laser, paving the way for commercialization in the European Union. The CE Mark denotes that the device meets EU safety, health, and environmental protection standards.
- The company has established distribution partnerships with Global Surgical Service for Spain and Portugal, and with Teleon Surgical for Germany and Austria.
- April 1, 2024: ViaLase secured $40 million through its Series C financing round to advance the ViaLase Laser, enhance clinical trials, and prepare for commercial deployment. Key investors included Venture Investors Health Fund and Arboretum Ventures.
- October 30, 2023: ViaLase completed patient enrollment for its pivotal trial VIA-002, which assesses the efficacy of their technology compared to conventional selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) for POAG treatment.
- April 18, 2023: At the 2023 Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Annual Meeting, ViaLase presented new scientific data affirming the safety and efficacy of the FLigHT procedure.
- The study showed significant reductions in intraocular pressure (IOP) with no serious adverse effects reported over 24 months, according to a preliminary trial involving 152 patients.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2018 |
| Headquarters | Aliso Viejo, California, USA |
| Founders | Tibor Juhasz |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | Venture Investors Health Fund, Arboretum Ventures, Falcon Vision (KKR) |
| Industry | Medical Technology, Glaucoma Treatment |
| Number of Employees | Not publicly disclosed |
Early History
ViaLase was founded in 2018 by Dr. Tibor Juhasz, an innovator with experience in femtosecond laser technology, which had previously revolutionized ophthalmic procedures such as cataract and refractive surgery. Recognizing the unmet needs in glaucoma treatment, Juhasz aimed to leverage femtosecond laser precision and safety to create a non-invasive treatment option. By doing so, ViaLase positioned itself at the forefront of medical technology targeting reduction in intraocular pressure, a significant cause of glaucoma.
Company Profile and Achievements
ViaLase's primary focus is its ViaLase Laser system, which employs the femtosecond laser for a procedure known as Femtosecond Laser Image-guided High-Precision Trabeculotomy (FLigHT). This procedure provides a non-pharmacologic, incision-free alternative to traditional glaucoma surgeries.
- Innovative Approach: The FLigHT procedure utilizes precision lasers to create fluid drainage channels, enhancing aqueous humor outflow while minimizing tissue damage.
- Key Milestones:
- Clinical Trials: Conducted extensive trials showing over 34% reduction in IOP with no significant adverse effects.
- Regulatory Approvals: Earned CE Mark in the EU, enabling commercialization efforts within Europe.
- Funding Achievements: Successfully raised significant capital ($45.2 million) to drive development and commercialization.
Current Operations and Market Position
ViaLase is currently in the process of rolling out its ViaLase Laser system across the EU following CE Mark approval. Target markets include key countries like Spain, Portugal, Germany, and Austria. The company strives to capture substantial market share by addressing the growing prevalence of glaucoma globally.
- Market Impact: ViaLase’s FLigHT procedure offers a safer and more efficient alternative to existing treatment methods, potentially reducing the risk of complications associated with invasive surgeries.
- Strategic Initiatives: Partnering with leading distributors in Europe, enhancing product offerings, and expanding clinical trials to ascertain long-term efficacy and safety.
Conclusion
ViaLase represents a significant force in the medical technology landscape, particularly in glaucoma care. As the company prepares for broader commercialization of its certified technology in Europe, it is poised to revolutionize glaucoma treatment protocols, offering safer, non-invasive options to millions of patients. Its strategic focus on cutting-edge femtosecond laser technology not only promises clinical benefits but also heralds a transformative shift in addressing chronic eye conditions worldwide.