Our multispecialty practice in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York offers retinal, oculoplastic, corneal, and comprehensive eye care. We serve a diverse patient population across multiple counties. We perform a high volume of cataract surgeries locally, which ensures accessible care for our rural demographic. This article offers insights into our integration of innovative technology such as the ZEISS MICOR 700—the first hand-held lens removal device with ultrasound-free operation (Figure).
Figure. ZEISS MICOR 700 is the first hand-held system that does not require a console or a foot pedal, providing a sustainable solution with a low initial investment.
IMPLEMENTING INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Our practice is always committed to adopting new technologies to improve our patients’ outcomes. The ZEISS NULEX (non-ultrasonic lens extraction) procedure with the ZEISS MICOR 700 represents a novel approach to lens extraction. This revolutionary procedure generates less thermal stress in the eye than conventional phaco and minimizes the risk of thermal damage to ocular tissue. The ZEISS MICOR 700 includes patented crystalline lens extraction technology, a blunt and rounded tip design, and a single-use "plug-and-play" system with a minimal OR footprint.
ZEISS MICOR 700 helps us minimize risk to patients’ surrounding eye structures and increase OR efficiency. Embracing these innovations helps us to enhance our surgical skills and adapt to evolving technologies that benefit patient outcomes. Our willingness to evolve ultimately benefits patients and helps us maintain a competitive edge in the field.
We integrated the ZEISS MICOR 700 into our practice owing to its potential to expand and improve our surgical offerings. The benefits of the system are noteworthy. It does not induce cavitation, and it operates with low levels of irrigation. The reduction in energy emission in and around the eye may decrease endothelial trauma, minimize tissue swelling, reduce trauma to wound edges, improve tissue reapproximation, and facilitate faster visual recovery. Ongoing studies are being conducted to explore these benefits further.1
The technology’s straightforward design simplifies its assembly and use, allowing for easy integration and promotion by our staff.
COST AND OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
Portability and Flexibility
The device’s portability allows it to be used at multiple locations, providing flexibility. Additionally, it does not require the substantial capital investment typically associated with new phaco machines and other equipment, making it a highly cost-effective option.
Efficiency Gains
The adoption of ZEISS MICOR 700 has hastened setup and reduced sterilization time compared to traditional phaco equipment, saving us several minutes per case. The time saved can be used for additional surgeries or other essential tasks, ultimately improving overall productivity.
PATIENT RECEPTION
Patient education is key when introducing new technologies. We have found that, when patients understand the potential benefits of innovative technology, they are more likely to embrace it. To date, none of our patients has declined the ZEISS NULEX procedure after being informed about it. Patients report a comfortable experience and are pleased with the excellent vision they achieve postoperatively. Additionally, the single-use apparatus helps alleviate concerns about contamination or infection.
FUTURE PLANS AND GROWTH
We are considering dedicating one room specifically to procedures using ZEISS MICOR 700. The easier setup and cleanup could allow us to open a second room with our existing staff, which would increase our operational capacity without necessarily increasing our overhead.
CONCLUSION
The integration of the MICOR 700 from ZEISS has had a positive impact on our practice, allowing us to improve patient outcomes and our center’s operational efficiency. Embracing innovation is not just about adopting the latest tools. It is also about continuously seeking ways to improve processes, optimize the patient experience, and ensure long-term success in a competitive environment. As we continue to refine our approach, we remain optimistic about the potential of ZEISS NULEX and other novel procedures.
This product is available for customers in the United States only.
1. Ianchulev TA, Yeu E, Hu EH, Singh IP, Tyson FC. Comparative efficiency of microinterventional and femto laser pretreatment during subsonic miCor fragmentation lensectomy in 557 surgeries. Presented at: ASCRS 2024; May 5, 2024; Boston, MA.
The statements of the doctor reflect only their personal opinions and experiences and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of any institution that they are affiliated with. The doctor alone is responsible for the content of their experience reported and any potential resulting infringements. Carl Zeiss Meditec Inc. and its affiliates do not have clinical evidence supporting the opinions and statements of the doctor nor accept any responsibility or liability for the doctors' content.
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