Global Health and Economics of LCS
The current price point for laser cataract surgery prohibits developing countries and even newly established ophthalmology practices in developed countries from entering the LCS market. Estimates in the literature dating back to 2012 economic climate expect 500 cataract surgeries per year to justify the capital investment and upkeep costs. The initial purchase price of the laser, the size of the laser, which requires additional space in the operating room or a separate laser suite, and the added costs of repairs, upgrades, maintenance, and insurance are all considerations practices must examine before deciding to purchase a femtosecond laser platform.