Abbott announced that it entered into an agreement to purchase OptiMedica Corporation, a privately held, Silicon Valley-based ophthalmic device company. OptiMedica developed the Catalys Precision Laser System, which is designed to allow surgeons to replace some of the technically demanding manual steps in cataract surgery with a precise, computer-guided, femtosecond laser technology. The acquisition would enable Abbott to expand its vision care business into the femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery market.
Abbott also announced that it acquired Brazilian surgical distributor Vistatek, which the company said will allow it to be closer to the patients its serves and to grow its customer base in the Brazilian market by providing a broad portfolio of vision care treatment options. The transaction coincides with Abbott’s 75th anniversary of conducting business in Brazil.