VEO to Support the Aniridia Foundation International in its Efforts to Raise Awarenessof Aniridia and Other Rare Diseases
CINCINNATI, Ohio – FEBRUARY 28, 2022 – VEO Ophthalmics, LLC announced today that it is collaborating with Aniridia Foundation International (AFI)to raise awareness for aniridia and its associated treatment options. VEO is proud to support AFI in their mission to help advance research and provide educational programs to the Aniridia syndrome community, by making a generous donation in honor of Rare Disease Day.
Aniridia is a serious ophthalmic rare disease in which a patient’s eyes are underdeveloped, from birth, due to a genetic mutation. Those affected develop childhood glaucoma, cataracts, corneal scarring, retinal, and other medical issues. Most noticeably, the fovea and iris do not develop properly, causing low vision, light sensitivities, and glare, along with cosmetic disadvantages. VEO Ophthalmics is the U.S. distributor for the CUSTOMFLEX® ARTIFICIALIRIS, a custom-made artificial iris implant that addresses both symptomatic and cosmetic aspects of iris defects.
Rare Disease Day®, which takes place on the last day of February each year, was created to raise global awareness about rare diseases and their impact on patients’ lives. The campaign targets the general public, as well as policy makers, public authorities, industry representatives, researchers, and health professionals.
Ron Gilliland, President and CEO of VEO Ophthalmics stated: “We are honored to support AFI, whose important work promotes scientific research and educational programs to help patients suffering from aniridia. Following the FDA approval of the CUSTOMFLEX® ARTIFICIALIRIS in 2018, many patients suffering from symptomatic aniridia have benefited from this unique technology.”
“The important work we do at AFI is supported by our strategic partnerships with the medical community, members and corporate donors, and our partnership with VEO is a shining example of that,” said Jill Nerby, AFI Director and Founder. “A core part of our mission is to raise awareness of Aniridia syndrome and the associated conditions that make up this genetic syndrome. We are grateful for VEO Ophthalmics’ support and donation and look forward to continuing our work during Rare Disease Day – and beyond.”
About the CUSTOMFLEX® ARTIFICIALIRIS
The CUSTOMFLEX® ARTIFICIALIRIS is a foldable iris prosthesis, custom made for each individual patient, replicating the natural appearance of the patient’s eye. The CUSTOMFLEX® ARTIFICIALIRIS is the first and only FDA approved device for treating full or partial aniridia or other iris defects in adults and children.
The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has granted the CUSTOMFLEX® ARTIFICIALIRIS transitional pass‐through payment status, effective January 1, 2020. Further, AMA/CPT has assigned three CPT codes for artificial iris implantation, which became effective July 1, 2020.
About the Aniridia Foundation International (AFI)
Aniridia Foundation International is a 501(C)3 non-profit charitable organization dedicated to assisting those with low vision or blindness due to the genetic eye disease, Aniridia. They support and promote scientific research for Aniridia syndrome and provide crucial support through programs, like The Chris Albrecht HOPE (Helping Other PEople) Fund. AFI’s educational projects include their “Make a Miracle” conferences, which bring doctors and researchers together with the affected families or individuals, as well as their participation at medical meeting exhibitions. Through their initiates, AFI seeks to promote awareness among the public and medical community of this rare genetic disorder and to dispel misconceptions about people with Aniridia syndrome and disabilities.
To learn more, visit https://www.make-a-miracle.org/.
About VEO Ophthalmics
Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, VEO Ophthalmics, LLC, is a developer and distributor of ophthalmic surgical technologies. VEO focuses on improving patient care by partnering with leading ophthalmic surgeons to develop innovative devices for today’s challenging surgical environment. Close relationships with ophthalmic healthcare customers and business partners help VEO ensure that its products and service experience meet the highest standards.
To learn more, visit VEO at www.veo-ophthalmics.com.