Tetratherix (ASX:TTX) said it completed its first preclinical performance study for its ophthalmic viscosurgical device, Optimatrix, in cataract surgery with a recognized animal model, according to a Wednesday Australian bourse filing.

Animals underwent a cataract operation in both eyes, on the same day and by the same surgeon. In one eye, Optimatrix was used and then left in place. In the other eye, a sham procedure was performed using a salt solution, which was removed at the end of the procedure.

With Optimatrix, even with the product remaining inside the eye, intraocular eye pressure was back at pre-operative levels within six hours and did not rise again by 48 hours. The surgical device was developed from Tetramatrix's platform polymer.

Two new patents were lodged covering the composition of matter and the use application for cataract surgery.