Nation IN BRIEF : WASHINGTON, D.C. : FDA Approves Eye Laser Treatment

The Food and Drug Administration has approved an eye laser that polishes the cornea to improve vision and prevent the need for many corneal transplants. Summit Technology Inc. announced the approval of the nation’s first excimer laser to treat corneal scars and other diseases. Experts predicted it could be used to treat between 10,000 and 25,000 Americans this year. Dr. Carmen A. Puliafito, chairman of ophthalmology at Tufts University School of Medicine in Massachusetts, said the treatment would cost between $1,000 and $1,500, compared to a $10,000 corneal transplant.