FDA OKs Eye Laser Use in Treating Astigmatism

The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved the use of an eye laser already popular for correcting nearsightedness to treat astigmatism, an eye condition that affects millions of Americans.

Visx Inc. said its excimer laser can treat mild to moderate astigmatism, a condition in which an unevenly curved cornea causes blurred and distorted vision, in a 15-minute outpatient procedure.

In clinical trials of 82 eyes, 91.5% had 20/40 vision or better without glasses two years after the surgery, the FDA said. Side effects can include a haze over the cornea, increase in eye pressure, light sensitivity or problems with night vision, the FDA warned.