ROCHESTER, N.Y.— Bausch + Lomb, the global eye health company, and Technolas Perfect Vision GmbH (TPV) announced an agreement in principle to globally distribute the first femtosecond laser capable of performing both cataract and refractive procedures on one platform.

TPV is a leading ophthalmology laser company and was established in 2009 through a joint venture between Bausch + Lomb and 20/10 Perfect Vision AG to develop advanced refractive and cataract technologies. TPV has a full range of expertise in both femtosecond and excimer laser businesses with current innovations focused on laser cataract surgery and the correction of presbyopia.

Under the arrangement, TPV will develop and manufacture its innovative femtosecond cataract and refractive laser system from its state-of-the-art facilities in Munich, Germany, and service the product through its current worldwide service organization. Bausch + Lomb Surgical will leverage its cataract expertise and commercial capabilities to globally distribute TPV’s femtosecond laser. Financial terms were not disclosed. TPV will continue to commercialize the refractive portfolio.

Femtosecond laser technology provides greater precision compared to manual techniques in cataract surgery, the company said, noting that ophthalmologists who perform cataract and refractive procedures will benefit from one platform that supports both clinical applications.

“Femtosecond laser technology for cataract procedures promises to be one of the most significant clinical advances in cataract surgery in 40 years,” said Robert E. Grant, CEO and president of Bausch + Lomb Surgical. “The TPV femtosecond laser platform, which uniquely supports refractive and cataract procedures, is a natural complement to our portfolio of cataract products. This is the first of many new technologies we are pursuing focused on enhancing a physician’s ability to improve patient outcomes.”

“The agreement with Bausch + Lomb capitalizes on the investments TPV has made in advancing the technology and clinical capabilities of femtosecond lasers to meet physician and patient needs by combining cataract and refractive capabilities into one platform,” said Dr. Kristian Hohla, chief executive officer of TPV.

Commercialization is expected to begin in the second half of 2011. TPV previously announced that they filed for 510(k) clearance in the U.S.

An estimated 20 million aging baby boomers and seniors have cataracts and over 15 million cataract surgeries are performed worldwide each year, B+L’s statement noted.