An automated DSLT device that doesn’t require manual gonio lens manipulation is now available in the U.S.
Alcon (Geneva, Switzerland) has announced the full U.S. commercial launch of Voyager DSLT, the first and only direct selective laser trabeculoplasty (DSLT) device for treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
The move comes after the Swiss giant’s July 2024 purchase of Israel-based Belkin Vision and its Eagle DSLT.
Voyager DSLT is designed to streamline glaucoma treatment by automatically delivering 120 laser pulses without requiring a gonio lens, which is necessary in manual SLT procedures.
Its system operates through a touchscreen and uses proprietary SureTrac eye-tracking technology to deliver laser pulses through the limbus to the trabecular meshwork. This stimulates the eye’s natural healing response to improve aqueous outflow.
Alcon also announced plans to officially debut Voyager DSLT at the upcoming American Glaucoma Society Meeting in Washington, D.C. (Feb 26-Mar 2), where attendees will be able to experience the device firsthand at the company’s booth (#29-32).
The DSLT difference
While notable medical societies, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), recognize manual SLT as an effective first-line therapy, the treatment comes with practical challenges—treatment duration and specialized training—limiting its accessibility for both doctors and patients.1
According to Alcon, Voyager DSLT, with its automated design, is uniquely positioned to accelerate the adoption of laser as a first-line treatment, unlocking the therapy’s availability for more patients.2
“Alcon is dedicated to developing treatments and technologies for people living with glaucoma,” said Dr. Terry Kim, chief medical officer and head of Global Medical Safety at Alcon, in a news release.
“By introducing Voyager DSLT, we’re able to broaden access to first-line SLT therapy and provide Eye Care Professionals with crucial early intervention for their glaucoma patients.”
DSLT data and hands-on experience
Clinical data has demonstrated the effectiveness of the treatment, with 62% of DSLT participants remaining medication-free at 12 months in a randomized controlled trial. The device showed a strong safety profile with low risk of adverse events.3 On top of that, 96% of 24 physicians involved in a DSLT demo agreed that they would want first-line DSLT offered if they were patients.4
“I have been using Voyager DSLT since October of 2024, and it has made an incredible impact on the use of SLT for my practice,” said Dr. Inder Paul Singh, president of The Eye Centers of Racine and Kenosha (Wisconsin, USA). “My patients have been delighted by the efficiency, comfort level of the treatment and overall experience.”
The Voyager DSLT adds to Alcon’s glaucoma portfolio, which includes the Hydrus Microstent MIGS device, the EX-PRESS Glaucoma Filtration Device and pharmaceutical drops. The system is also available in select markets in the European Union and the United Kingdom.
References
- Takusagawa HL, Hoguet A, Sit AJ, et al. Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty for the Treatment of Glaucoma: A Report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Ophthalmology. 2024;131(1):37-47.
- Voyager DSLT User Guide; 2024.
- Belkin M. GLAUrious, a multicentre, randomised, controlled study of direct selective laser trabeculoplasty in open angle glaucoma. IOVS. June 2023;64(8):5393.
- Alcon Data on File, 2024.
