Full Press Release Details
Alcon Will Not Appeal
Switzerland March 31, 2004 On March 26, 2004, the Court of Appeals for the
Federal Circuit in Washington, D.C. affirmed the District Court s December 20, 2002
post-trial order overturning a jury s determination that Nidek was infringing Summit
Technology Inc. s patents covering broad-beam excimer laser technology.
which acquired Summit Technology Inc. in 2000 and therefore owns the patents, is
disappointed with the appellate court s conclusion, but does not believe the cost of
further appeals is warranted.
addition, due to advances in technology since the lawsuit began, Alcon believes the
outcome of this lawsuit will have little impact on its position in the refractive surgery
market or on its financial results.
Inc. (NYSE:ACL) is the world s leading eye care company. Alcon, which has been
dedicated to the ophthalmic industry for more than 50 years, develops, manufactures and
markets pharmaceuticals, surgical equipment and devices, contact lens solutions and other
vision care products that treat diseases, disorders and other conditions of the eye.
Concerning Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking
statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may
cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any
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statements. These statements reflect the views of our management as of the date of this
press release with respect to future events and are based on assumptions and subject to
risks and uncertainties. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on
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understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we
expect. Except to the extent required under the federal securities laws and the rules and
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obligation to publicly update or revise any of these forward-looking statements, whether
to reflect new information or future events or circumstances or otherwise.
For information, contact:
MacHatton (Investor Relations)
News media and other inquiries: Mary Dulle (Public Relations)