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IRIDEX Launches New MicroPulse(TM) Module Targeting the Broad Ophthalmology Laser Photocoagulation Market
Patented Technology Enables Greater Control of Laser Therapy, Less Damage to Tissue

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Oct. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- IRIDEX Corporation (Nasdaq: IRIX) announced today that it has expanded its product offering by introducing an optional MicroPulse module in the Company's IQ532 (green) laser system and now provides a complete portfolio of infrared, yellow and green laser systems which can deliver MicroPulse laser treatments.

"Historically laser systems delivering a green wavelength have been our highest selling laser photocoagulators," said Dr. Dominik Beck, IRIDEX President and CEO. "Providing a MicroPulse module in our green laser systems allows the adoption of tissue-sparing therapies by a broader group of ophthalmologists. It is our goal to bring MicroPulse technology to the broadest population of surgeons and patients possible."

Martin A. Mainster, MD, PhD, Professor Emeritus of Ophthalmology of the University of Kansas School of Medicine, commented, "Numerous clinical trials have shown that less destructive and even nondestructive laser phototherapy can achieve therapeutic goals and still preserve visual sensitivity."

Dr. Beck noted that the advances in MicroPulse laser therapy have been made in close collaboration with leading ophthalmologists world-wide.

MicroPulse is a patented laser technology pioneered by IRIDEX which enables tissue-sparing photocoagulation therapies to treat eye diseases. An increasing body of evidence shows that MicroPulse laser treatments can induce a therapeutic response with no detectable tissue damage and with improved visual function when compared to conventional photocoagulation treatments.

About MicroPulse Technology

MicroPulse is a tissue-sparing laser delivery therapy that works by electronically "chopping" the laser emission into trains of microsecond pulses. This enhances the physician's ability to more precisely control the laser effects on target tissues, offering the potential for ocular treatment with less collateral effects than conventional laser treatments.

About IRIDEX

IRIDEX Corporation was founded in 1989 and is a worldwide leader in developing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and versatile laser-based medical systems and delivery devices. We provide solutions for multiple specialties, including ophthalmology, dermatology and otolaryngology. We maintain a deep commitment to the success of our customers, with comprehensive technical, clinical, and service support programs. IRIDEX is dedicated to a standard of excellence, offering superior technology for superior results. IRIDEX products are sold in the United States through a direct sales force and internationally through a combination of a direct sales force and a network of approximately 100 independent distributors into 107 countries. For further information, visit the Company's website at http://www.iridex.com/

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended, relating to the Company's strategic plans with respect to MicroPulse technology and the Company's new products relating thereto, including market adoption of these products. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors. Please see a detailed description of these and other risks contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2011 and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarters ended April 2, 2011 and July 2, 2011, each of which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date and will not be updated.

SOURCE IRIDEX Corporation