Bausch + Lomb Acquires ELIOS for Glaucoma Care

Bausch + Lomb Corp. has announced the acquisition of Elios Vision Inc., the developer of the ELIOS procedure—a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) procedure utilizing an excimer laser. This acquisition underscores Bausch + Lomb’s commitment to providing advanced solutions for glaucoma treatment, enhancing care for patients worldwide.

Advancing Glaucoma Treatment

The ELIOS system is the first clinically validated, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery using a non-thermal, laser-based approach. It offers a tissue-friendly and highly adaptable option for treating glaucoma, eliminating the need for implants. The MIGS category, including the ELIOS system, is widely recognized for its safety, effectiveness, and shorter recovery times compared to other surgical techniques.

Synergy with Cataract Surgery

MIGS procedures, including ELIOS, are often performed alongside cataract surgery—the most common surgical procedure globally. With an estimated 19% of cataract surgery patients also suffering from glaucoma or ocular hypertension, this presents a significant opportunity for integrated treatment solutions.

Leadership Insights

Commitment to Innovation

Luc Bonnefoy, President of the Surgical Division at Bausch + Lomb, emphasized the strategic value of the acquisition:

“The ELIOS system offers a differentiated approach for the treatment of glaucoma, a condition expected to increase in prevalence by 47% from 2020 to 2040. This acquisition demonstrates our commitment to investing in technologies that help eye care professionals better address the evolving needs of their patients.”

Expert Endorsement

Dr. Ike K. Ahmed, an ophthalmologist at the University of Toronto and the Moran Eye Center, highlighted the system’s innovative potential:

“ELIOS provides a tissue-friendly, precision non-thermal laser-based and highly adoptable procedure for the treatment of glaucoma. The synergy between cataract surgery and MIGS can help ophthalmologists provide streamlined care and improve patient quality of life.”

Global Reach and Vision

Elliot Friedman, former Chairman and CEO of Elios Vision, expressed optimism about the partnership:

“Bausch + Lomb’s extensive reach in cataract surgery will introduce ELIOS to a broader range of eye care professionals and help change the treatment paradigm for the estimated 80 million people worldwide living with glaucoma. The goal is to make combining cataract and glaucoma treatment the new standard of care, which is even more attainable given Bausch + Lomb’s presence in nearly 100 countries.”

Current Status and Future Prospects

• CE Marked: The ELIOS system is currently CE marked and available in the European Union.

• FDA Approval: Elios Vision is actively seeking FDA approval to expand the technology’s availability in the United States.

Advisory and Legal Support

Leerink Partners served as the exclusive financial advisor to Elios Vision, while Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati acted as legal advisor for the transaction.

This acquisition positions Bausch + Lomb as a leader in advancing glaucoma care, offering innovative and integrated solutions for eye care professionals and patients alike.