Ace Vision Group Appoints Cristos Ifantides, MD, as Director, Clinical Applications Development
Ace Vision Group (AVG) announced the appointment of Cristos Ifantides, MD, MBA, as Director, Clinical Applications Development, effective immediately.
In his new role, Dr. Ifantides will lead the education and clinical adoption efforts of AVG's forthcoming presbyopia technology platform. Laser Scleral Microporation (LSM) is a new microporation therapy that uncrosslinks scleral fibers that cause progressive ocular rigidity and leads to gradual loss of the dynamic focusing power of the eye, according to AVG. Dr. Ifantides will spearhead efforts to continue development of the VESA digital diagnostics artificial intelligence clinical platform. VESA is a planning tool that allows for the customization and optimization of the LSM treatment. VESA also has broader applications in virtual clinical simulations which could improve technology assisted research validation and test the efficacy of therapeutic interventions in virtual clinical settings. Dr. Ifantides will also serve on the company's medical advisory board to support AVG's efforts in the ongoing VisioLite Gen II clinical studies.
Dr. Ifantides is an inventor, educator, clinical investigator, and surgeon who has contributed to the advancement of the ophthalmic field through published research and anterior segment surgical techniques. His dual experience in eye care and bioengineering have allowed him to bridge the gap between the two complementary sciences. Dr. Ifantides' background in prototype development from inception to execution partnered with his team building expertise are well-suited to guide the next stages of AVG's clinical evolution toward the commercialization of its devices and procedures.
"I am eager to develop new clinical opportunities and educate my colleagues in the scientific and medical communities about the potential presbyopia paradigm shift that AVG's flagship technologies, the VisioLite Ophthalmic Laser System and the Laser Scleral Microporation (LSM) are at the forefront of," Dr. Ifantides said in a company news release. "This interventional technology has the ability to exponentially change the standard of care for the presbyopia patient. As an ophthalmic anterior segment surgeon, it's exciting to see the continued development in the anterior segment space. LSM will assist us in widening our reach to serve more patients suffering from age-related sight changes. I am elated to join AVG at such a vital time on their corporate and commercialization journey and look forward to working closely with their well-respected team."