Medicare News In Brief
This article was originally published in The Gray Sheet
Executive Summary
New-tech intraocular lens: CMS is considering whether Rayner Surgical's C-flex Model 570C intraocular lens meets the criteria for a new class of new-technology IOLs. The designation would provide a $50 payment bonus for lenses implanted for cataracts in ambulatory surgical centers for five years. Rayner Surgical says its product, which was approved by FDA in May 2007, reduces silicone oil adhesion and oil-induced opacification associated with vitreoretinal surgery. CMS questions whether the benefit is clinically demonstrable compared with other IOLs. Under current new-tech IOL classifications, four lenses are eligible for a bonus payment through February 2011 based on their ability to reduce spherical aberrations: Advanced Medical Optics' Tecnis, Alcon's Acrysof IQ, Bausch & Lomb's Sofport AO and STAAR's Affinity Collamer (1"The Gray Sheet" March 19, 2007, In Brief)