ViaLase Secures $40M Funding to Advance First Femtosecond Laser for Glaucoma
ViaLase has successfully completed a Series C financing round, raising a substantial $40 million. This funding boost is set to accelerate the development, regulatory approval, and commercialization efforts of the ViaLase Laser, a pioneering medical device developed for the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).
Understanding Primary Open Angle Glaucoma
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of glaucoma, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Characterized by a gradual increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) that can damage the optic nerve, POAG typically progresses unnoticed until significant vision loss occurs. The condition is often called the "silent thief of sight" due to its asymptomatic nature in the early stages. Current treatments for POAG focus on lowering IOP to prevent or slow down the progression of optic nerve damage, including medications, laser treatments, and surgery.
The ViaLase Laser: A Technological Leap Forward
The ViaLase Laser distinguishes itself as the first femtosecond laser designed specifically for glaucoma treatment, offering a promising new approach to managing this widespread condition. The support from both new and existing investors underscores the confidence in the potential of ViaLase's technology to significantly improve the current treatment landscape for millions of patients worldwide.
Tibor Juhasz, PhD, the Founder and CEO of ViaLase, expressed his gratitude for the investors' confidence, stating, "The strong support from our investors validates the potential of the ViaLase Laser to enhance the current treatment paradigm for the millions of patients living with glaucoma. We are preparing to embark on a new phase in our company's evolution—commercialization—and are incredibly fortunate to have the support, resources, financial backing, and counsel of such a high-caliber group of investors."
The ViaLase Laser leverages femtosecond laser technology, renowned for its precision, in combination with micron-level image guidance. This integration facilitates a noninvasive glaucoma treatment known as femtosecond laser image-guided high-precision trabeculotomy (FLigHT). FLigHT represents a novel procedure designed to offer unparalleled precision and visibility for physicians performing trabecular meshwork modifications to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) through a noninvasive, nonsurgical method
The Series C financing round attracted significant investment from a range of backers, including a new lead investor and continued support from existing stakeholders such as Venture Investors Health Fund, Arboretum Ventures, and Falcon Vision. Falcon Vision is notably backed by KKR, further highlighting the wide-ranging interest and belief in ViaLase's approach to addressing glaucoma treatment.
