Skip to main content

IRIDEX CORP

For the period ended Jan 3, 2026. Filed Apr 2, 2026.

View on SEC.gov

About this filing

A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.

FY2026 · Filed Apr 2, 2026

IRIX$0.66-3.3%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026

What changed in Risk Factors?

Read the current filing

Previous report: 10-K

Period ended 2024-12-28; filed 2025-03-27.

0000950170-25-046107

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Current report: 10-K

Period ended 2026-01-03; filed 2026-04-02.

0001193125-26-140194

Item 1A. Risk Factors

The baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.

Compared 256 previous paragraphs and 262 current paragraphs.

234 unchanged; 20 reworded; 7 added; 2 removed; 0 previous and 1 current paragraphs rearranged.

Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.

A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.

Added paragraphs (7)

Current report

dependence on international sales and third-party manufacturers;

Current report

In addition, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (the “OBBBA”), which was signed into law in July 2025, includes provisions that will impact the United States healthcare system in various ways, including budget cuts to Medicaid and introducing new participant work and eligibility requirements for Medicaid coverage, which are expected to significantly change the administration and applicability of Medicaid coverage. Although the full impact of the OBBBA on the healthcare system and our business is uncertain, the resulting changes may increase the cost and complexity of completing clinical development of and launching any new products, which could adversely affect our business and prospects. The impact of ongoing and future judicial challenges, as well as future legislative, executive, and administrative actions and healthcare measures and agency rules implemented by the government on us and the healthcare industry as a whole is unclear.

Current report

It is unclear how future legislation, executive orders, new regulations, and other actions by federal and state governments, including changes in the leadership of FDA and other federal agencies, will impact the industry, including our business and that of our customers. Budget cuts to research and federal agencies, layoffs at federal agencies, hiring freezes, return-to-office policies, the current government shutdown, lapse in government appropriations and other measures taken by the current administration, including measures by the Department of Government Efficiency, can have a material impact on our industry, including the business of our customers and our operations. In the future, to the extent we or our partners develop any medical devices subject to FDA regulation, failure to comply with applicable regulatory requirements can result in enforcement action by the government, which may include warning letters, untitled letters, fines, injunctions, civil penalties, recall or seizure of products, among others.

Current report

In addition, in the event it becomes necessary to utilize one or more different contract manufacturers for critical sole and limited source components, and fully-assembled products, or other product components associated with our products, we would experience additional costs, delays and difficulties in doing so as a result of identifying and entering into new agreements with new suppliers or manufacturers. In such event, we would have to prepare such new suppliers or manufacturers to meet the logistical requirements associated with supplying and manufacturing our products to our specifications, and our business would suffer.

Current report

We outsource to third parties certain supply-chain logistics functions, including portions of our product distribution, transportation management and information technology support services.

Current report

We rely on certain third-party providers to operate our regional product distribution centers and to manage the transportation of our work-in-process and finished products among our facilities, to our third-party manufacturers and to our customers. We cannot guarantee that these providers will fulfill their respective responsibilities in a timely manner in accordance with the contract terms, in which case our internal operations and the distribution of our products to our customers could be materially adversely affected. Also, we cannot guarantee that our contracts with these third-party providers will be renewed, in which case we would have to transition these functions in-house or secure new providers, which could have a material adverse effect on our business if the transition is not executed appropriately.

Current report

In addition, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (the “OBBBA”) was enacted on July 4, 2025, and made a number of changes to existing tax law, including extending or making permanent certain business and international tax measures initially established under the Tax Act, which were set to expire. The OBBBA requires complex computations to be performed that were initially introduced by the Tax Act. The U.S. Treasury Department, the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”), and other standard-setting bodies could interpret or issue guidance on how provisions of the OBBBA will be applied or otherwise administered that is different from our interpretation. We have considered the impact of the OBBBA in the current financial year. We are also in the process of evaluating the financial statement impact of these provisions for future periods. We do not expect the OBBBA to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. As we evaluate the effect of the OBBBA, collect and prepare necessary data, and interpret any additional guidance, we may adjust provisional amounts that we have recorded that may impact our provision for income taxes in the period in which the adjustments are made.
Removed paragraphs (2)

Previous report

dependence on international sales;

Previous report

Further, FDA will begin to enforce the QMSR requirements upon the effective date, February 2, 2026, which incorporates by reference the quality management system requirements of ISO 13485:2016. If we or any of our suppliers or contractors fail to meet the regulatory requirements or a regulatory inspection, our operations could be disrupted and our manufacturing interrupted. We can provide no assurance that we will continue to remain in material compliance with the QSMR when it goes into effect in February 2026.
Reworded paragraphs (20)

Previous wording

general macroeconomic conditions, including those resulting from ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and tensions, uncertainty in tax law or policy, tariffs, trade wars, inflationary pressures and changing interest rates, a reduction in business confidence and activity, global pandemics and responsive measures and the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts.

Current wording

general macroeconomic conditions, including those resulting from ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and tensions, uncertainty in tax law or policy, tariffs, trade wars, inflationary pressures and changing interest rates, a reduction in business confidence and activity, global pandemics and responsive measures and the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the conflicts in the Middle East.

Previous wording

compliance with government regulations, including the FDA’s quality system regulation and laser performance standards;

Current wording

compliance with government regulations, including the FDA’s quality management system regulation and laser performance standards;

Previous wording

The Initial Novel Note is convertible at Novel’s option into shares of our Series B Preferred Stock at an initial conversion price of $10.00, subject to any adjustments set forth in the Initial Novel Note, In addition, any Novel Growth Notes issued in the future will be convertible at Novel’s option into shares of our common stock at a conversion price equal to the lesser of (x) a maximum conversion price as set forth in the Novel Note Purchase Agreement and (y) the greater of (A) the average closing price of the our common stock for each trading day after the applicable closing date in the calendar quarter immediately preceding the date of such conversion date and (B) a price floor of $0.21. The Novel Growth Notes will be issuable in three installments, with one-third of the aggregate principal amount being issuable on each of the first, second and third anniversaries of March 19, 2025 and ending 90 days following such anniversary, subject to the terms and conditions in the Novel Note Purchase Agreement.

Current wording

The Initial Novel Note is convertible at Novel’s option into shares of our Series B Preferred Stock at an initial conversion price of $10.00, subject to any adjustments set forth in the Initial Novel Note, In addition, any Novel Growth Notes issued in the future will be convertible at Novel’s option into shares of our common stock at a conversion price equal to the lesser of (x) a maximum conversion price as set forth in the Novel Note Purchase Agreement and (y) the greater of (A) the average closing price of the our common stock for each trading day after the applicable closing date in the calendar quarter immediately preceding the date of such conversion date and (B) a price floor of $0.21. The Novel Growth Notes will be issuable in three installments, with one-third of the aggregate principal amount being issuable on each of the first, second and third anniversaries of March 19, 2025 and ending 90 days following such anniversary, subject to the terms and conditions in the Novel Note Purchase Agreement. We have not issued any Growth Notes, but may do so in the future.

Previous wording

Our ability to sell our products and generate revenues depends upon our direct and independent sales forces within the United States, direct sales force in Germany and relationships with independent international distributors. Currently our direct and independent sales forces within the United States consist of approximately 20 employees, and our direct sales force in Germany consists of one employee. Our international independent distributors are managed by a team of four people. We generally grant our distributors exclusive territories for the sale of our products in specified countries and regions. The amount and timing of resources dedicated by our distributors to the sales of our products is not within our control. Our international sales are largely dependent on the efforts of these third parties. If any distributor breaches the terms of its distribution agreement with us or fails to generate sales of our products, we may be forced to replace the distributor and our ability to sell our products into that exclusive sales territory could be adversely affected.

Current wording

Our ability to sell our products and generate revenues depends upon our direct and independent sales forces within the United States, direct sales force in Germany and relationships with independent international distributors. Currently our direct and independent sales forces within the United States consist of approximately 18 employees, and our direct sales force in Germany consists of one employee. Our international independent distributors are managed by a team of four people. We generally grant our distributors exclusive territories for the sale of our products in specified countries and regions. The amount and timing of resources dedicated by our distributors to the sales of our products is not within our control. Our international sales are largely dependent on the efforts of these third parties. If any distributor breaches the terms of its distribution agreement with us or fails to generate sales of our products, we may be forced to replace the distributor and our ability to sell our products into that exclusive sales territory could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

We derive, and expect to continue to derive, a large portion of our revenues from international sales. For the fiscal year 2024, our international sales were $26.0 million, or 53.4% of total revenues. We anticipate that international sales will continue to account for a significant portion of our revenues in the foreseeable future. All of our international revenues and costs for the fiscal year 2024 have been denominated in U.S. dollars except for sales transacted through our German subsidiary. As a result, an increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies makes our U.S. dollar-denominated products more expensive and thus less competitive in foreign markets and may negatively affect our reported revenue in any particular reporting period. Our international operations and sales are subject to a number of risks and potential costs, including:

Current wording

We derive, and expect to continue to derive, a large portion of our revenues from international sales. For the fiscal year 2025, our international sales were $29.5 million, or 55.9% of total revenues. We anticipate that international sales will continue to account for a significant portion of our revenues in the foreseeable future. All of our international revenues and costs for the fiscal year 2025 have been denominated in U.S. dollars except for sales transacted through our German subsidiary. As a result, an increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies makes our U.S. dollar-denominated products more expensive and thus less competitive in foreign markets and may negatively affect our reported revenue in any particular reporting period. Our international operations and sales are subject to a number of risks and potential costs, including:

Previous wording

We are subject to macroeconomic fluctuations in the U.S. and worldwide economy including inflationary pressures that may cause the cost of manufacturing our products or servicing our products to increase. Concerns about consumer and investor confidence, trade wars, tariffs, volatile corporate profits and reduced capital spending, geopolitical tensions and conflicts, terrorist and military activity, civil unrest, pandemic-related illness and other factors could reduce customer orders or cause customer order cancellations. For example, political and social turmoil related to international conflicts, such as that occurring in Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas, and terrorist acts may put further pressure on economic conditions in the United States and abroad.

Current wording

We are subject to macroeconomic fluctuations in the U.S. and worldwide economy including inflationary pressures that may cause the cost of manufacturing our products or servicing our products to increase. Concerns about consumer and investor confidence, trade wars, tariffs, volatile corporate profits and reduced capital spending, geopolitical tensions and conflicts, terrorist and military activity, civil unrest, pandemic-related illness and other factors could reduce customer orders or cause customer order cancellations. For example, political and social turmoil related to international conflicts, such as that occurring in Russia-Ukraine and conflicts within the Middle East, and terrorist acts may put further pressure on economic conditions in the United States and abroad.

Previous wording

Certain of our materials may be subject to the effects of various trade agreements, treaties and tariffs. In 2025, the United States imposed tariffs on various goods from various countries, including China, Canada, Mexico and the EU. As a result, Canada, the EU, China and other countries responded with retaliatory tariffs on certain United States exports. In February 2025, President Trump issued executive orders directing the United States to impose new or additional tariffs on certain imports from Canada, Mexico and China. It is uncertain whether such tariffs will remain in effect or if additional tariffs, including retaliatory tariffs, will be imposed.

Current wording

Certain of our materials may be subject to the effects of various trade agreements, treaties and tariffs. In fiscal year 2025, the United States imposed tariffs on various goods from various countries throughout the world, including China, Canada, Mexico and the EU. As a result, Canada, the EU, China and other trade partners responded with retaliatory tariffs on certain United States exports. .. It is uncertain whether such tariffs will remain in effect or if additional tariffs, including retaliatory tariffs, will be imposed. On February 20, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Power Act and immediately after, the U.S. Administration initiated new tariffs at different rates under alternative legislative powers, which increases the uncertainty around tariffs.

Previous wording

general macroeconomic conditions, including inflationary pressures and changing interest rates, changes in tax law or policy, tariffs, geopolitical tensions and conflicts, and global pandemics and related responsive measures;

Current wording

general macroeconomic conditions, including inflationary pressures and changing interest rates, global supply chain interruptions, government shutdowns, changes in tax law or policy, tariffs, geopolitical tensions and conflicts, and global pandemics and related responsive measures;

Previous wording

Our principal ophthalmic laser competitors are Alcon Inc., Bausch Health Companies Inc., Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Lumenis Ltd., Nidek Co. Ltd., Lumibird, ARC GmbH, Meridian, OD-OS GmbH and Norlase. We also compete with alternative glaucoma surgical device companies such as Alcon, Inc., Novartis AG, Allergan, Inc., Glaukos Corporation, Sight Sciences and New World Medical, Inc. Pharmaceuticals represent alternative treatments to our laser procedures. Some of our principal pharmaceutical competitors are Alcon, Inc., Allergan, Inc., Astellas Pharma Inc., Pfizer Inc., Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Roche Holding Ltd. (Genentech). Some of our competitors have substantially greater financial, engineering, product development, manufacturing, marketing and technical resources than we do. Some companies also have greater name recognition than us and long-standing customer relationships. In addition, other medical device companies, academic and research institutions, or others, may develop new technologies or therapies, including medical devices, surgical procedures or pharmacological treatments and obtain regulatory approval for products utilizing such techniques that are more effective in treating the conditions targeted by us, or are less expensive than our current or future products. Our technologies and products could be rendered obsolete by such developments. Any such developments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our principal ophthalmic laser competitors are Alcon Inc., Bausch Health Companies Inc., Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Lumenis Ltd., Nidek Co. Ltd., Lumibird, ARC GmbH, Meridian, OD-OS GmbH and Norlase. Our alternative glaucoma surgical device competitors are Alcon, Inc., Novartis AG, Allergan, Inc., Glaukos Corporation, Sight Sciences, and New World Medical, Inc. Pharmaceuticals represent alternative treatments to our laser procedures. Some of our principal pharmaceutical competitors are Alcon, Inc., Allergan, Inc., Astellas Pharma Inc., Pfizer Inc., Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Roche Holding Ltd. (Genentech). Some of our competitors have substantially greater financial, engineering, product development, manufacturing, marketing and technical resources than we do. Some companies also have greater name recognition than us and long-standing customer relationships. In addition, other medical device companies, academic and research institutions, or others, may develop new technologies or therapies, including medical devices, surgical procedures or pharmacological treatments and obtain regulatory approval for products utilizing such techniques that are more effective in treating the conditions targeted by us, or are less expensive than our current or future products. Our technologies and products could be rendered obsolete by such developments. Any such developments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

While we do not bill directly to Medicare, Medicaid or other third-party payors, because payment is in many cases available for our products from such payors, many healthcare laws place limitations and requirements on the manner in which we conduct our business (including our sales and promotional activities and interactions with healthcare professionals and facilities) and could result in liability and exposure for us. The laws that may affect our ability to operate include (i) the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, which prohibits, among other things, persons from knowingly and willfully soliciting, receiving, offering or paying remuneration, directly or indirectly, in exchange for or to induce either the referral of an individual for, or the purchase, order or recommendation of, any good or service for which payment may be made under federal healthcare programs such as Medicare or Medicaid, (ii) federal false claims laws which prohibit, among other things, individuals or entities from knowingly presenting, or causing to be presented, claims for payment from Medicare, Medicaid, or other third-party payors that are false or fraudulent, and which may apply to entities like us if we provide coding and billing advice to customers, or under theories of “implied certification” where the government and qui tam relators may allege that device companies are liable where a product that was paid for by the government in whole or in part was promoted “off-label,” lacked necessary clearance or approval, or failed to comply with good manufacturing practices or other laws; (iii) transparency laws and related reporting and disclosures requirements such as the federal Sunshine Act, now known as Open Payments; and/or (iv) state law equivalents of each of the above federal laws, including, without limitation anti-kickback and false claims laws which may apply to items or services reimbursed by any third-party payor, including commercial insurers, many of which differ from their federal counterparts in significant ways, thus complicating compliance efforts.

Current wording

While we do not bill directly to Medicare, Medicaid or other third-party payors, because payment is in many cases available for our products from such payors, many healthcare laws place limitations and requirements on the manner in which we conduct our business (including our sales and promotional activities and interactions with healthcare professionals and facilities) and could result in liability and exposure for us. The laws that may affect our ability to operate include (i) the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, which prohibits, among other things, persons from knowingly and willfully soliciting, receiving, offering or paying remuneration, directly or indirectly, in exchange for or to induce either the referral of an individual for, or the purchase, order or recommendation of, any good or service for which payment may be made under federal healthcare programs such as Medicare or Medicaid, (ii) federal false claims laws which prohibit, among other things, individuals or entities from knowingly presenting, or causing to be presented, claims for payment from Medicare, Medicaid, or other third-party payors that are false or fraudulent, and which may apply to entities like us if we provide coding and billing advice to customers, or under theories of “implied certification” where the government and qui tam relators may allege that device companies are liable where a product that was paid for by the government in whole or in part was promoted “off-label,” lacked necessary clearance or approval, or failed to comply with good manufacturing practices or other laws; (iii) transparency laws and related reporting and disclosures requirements such as the federal Sunshine Act, now known as Open Payments; and/or (iv) state law equivalents of each of the above federal laws, including, without limitation anti-kickback and false claims laws which may apply to items or services reimbursed by any third-party payor, including commercial insurers, many of which differ from their federal counterparts in significant ways, thus complicating compliance efforts. There is significant uncertainty in the life sciences industry due to potential government shutdowns, layoffs and staff departures at the federal agencies, like the FDA, tariffs, and funding cuts for research, which can have a material effect on the operations of our customers and their demand for our products. Such laws include, without limitation, state and federal anti-kickback or anti-referral laws, healthcare fraud and abuse laws, false claims laws, privacy and security laws, Physician Payments Sunshine Act and related transparency and manufacturer reporting laws, and other laws and regulations applicable to medical device manufacturers.

Previous wording

If our operations are found to be in violation of any of the laws described above or any other governmental regulations that apply to us, we may be subject to penalties, including civil and criminal penalties, exclusion from participation in government healthcare programs, damages, fines and the curtailment or restructuring of our operations. Any penalties, damages, fines, curtailment or restructuring of our operations could adversely affect our ability to operate our business and our financial results. The risk of our operations being found in violation of these laws is increased by the fact that the government’s provisions are open to a variety of evolving interpretations and enforcement discretion. Compliance with Open Payments, commonly known as the Sunshine Act, has presented a number of challenges to companies such as ours, in terms of interpretation of the law and its implementation. Under the Sunshine Act, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (“CMS”) has the potential to impose penalties of up to $1.26 million per year for violations, depending on the circumstances and adjusted annually for inflation, although enforcement has been negligible to date. Payments reported under the Sunshine Act also have the potential to draw scrutiny on payments to and relationships with physicians, which may have implications under the Anti-Kickback Statute and other healthcare laws. The risk that we may be found in violation of these laws may be increased by the fact that we do not have a formal healthcare compliance program in place. Further, while safe harbors may in some instances be available and utilized by companies to reduce risks associated with the Anti-Kickback Statute and certain other healthcare laws, we have not necessarily utilized such safe harbors nor fully followed all elements required to claim the benefit of such safe harbors in all possible instances. Any action against us for violation of these laws, even if we successfully defend against it, could cause us to incur significant legal expenses and divert our management’s attention from the operation of our business.

Current wording

If our operations are found to be in violation of any of the laws described above or any other governmental regulations that apply to us, we may be subject to penalties, including civil and criminal penalties, exclusion from participation in government healthcare programs, damages, fines and the curtailment or restructuring of our operations. Any penalties, damages, fines, curtailment or restructuring of our operations could adversely affect our ability to operate our business and our financial results. The risk of our operations being found in violation of these laws is increased by the fact that the government’s provisions are open to a variety of evolving interpretations and enforcement discretion. Compliance with Open Payments, commonly known as the Sunshine Act, has presented a number of challenges to companies such as ours, in terms of interpretation of the law and its implementation. Under the Sunshine Act, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (“CMS”) has the potential to impose penalties of up to $1.44 million per year for violations, depending on the circumstances and adjusted annually for inflation, although enforcement has been negligible to date. Payments reported under the Sunshine Act also have the potential to draw scrutiny on payments to and relationships with physicians, which may have implications under the Anti-Kickback Statute and other healthcare laws. The risk that we may be found in violation of these laws may be increased by the fact that we do not have a formal healthcare compliance program in place. Further, while safe harbors may in some instances be available and utilized by companies to reduce risks associated with the Anti-Kickback Statute and certain other healthcare laws, we have not necessarily utilized such safe harbors nor fully followed all elements required to claim the benefit of such safe harbors in all possible instances. Any action against us for violation of these laws, even if we successfully defend against it, could cause us to incur significant legal expenses and divert our management’s attention from the operation of our business.

Previous wording

Our success and ability to compete is dependent, in part, upon our proprietary information. We rely on a combination of patents, trade secrets, copyright and trademark laws, nondisclosure and other contractual agreements and technical measures to protect our intellectual property rights. We file patent applications to protect technology, inventions and improvements that are significant to the development of our business. As of December 28, 2024, our patent portfolio includes 68 active United States patents and 94 active international patents on the technologies related to our products and processes. In addition, as of December 28, 2024, we have 12 patent applications pending in the United States and 20 international patent applications pending. Our patent applications may not be approved. Any patents granted now or in the future may offer only limited protection against potential infringement and development by our competitors of competing products. Moreover, our competitors, many of which have substantial resources and have made substantial investments in competing technologies, may seek to apply for and obtain patents that will prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use or sell our products either in the United States or in international markets. Patents have a limited lifetime and once a patent expires competition may increase.

Current wording

Our success and ability to compete is dependent, in part, upon our proprietary information. We rely on a combination of patents, trade secrets, copyright and trademark laws, nondisclosure and other contractual agreements and technical measures to protect our intellectual property rights. We file patent applications to protect technology, inventions and improvements that are significant to the development of our business. As of January 3, 2026, our patent portfolio includes 67 active United States patents and 94 active international patents on the technologies related to our products and processes. In addition, as of January 3, 2026, we have 12 patent applications pending in the United States and 19 international patent applications pending. Our patent applications may not be approved. Any patents granted now or in the future may offer only limited protection against potential infringement and development by our competitors of competing products. Moreover, our competitors, many of which have substantial resources and have made substantial investments in competing technologies, may seek to apply for and obtain patents that will prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use or sell our products either in the United States or in international markets. Patents have a limited lifetime and once a patent expires competition may increase.

Previous wording

the impact of macroeconomic conditions, including any future global pandemic and inflationary pressures on global supply chains and market stability;

Current wording

the impact of macroeconomic conditions, including geopolitical conflict and instability, any future global pandemic and inflationary pressures on global supply chains and market stability;

Previous wording

The FDA imposes a broad range of additional requirements on medical device companies. Our products must be produced in compliance with the applicable requirements of QSR, or QMSR when it goes into effect in February 2026, and our manufacturing facilities are subject to establishment registration and device listing requirements from the FDA, and similar requirements from certain state authorities, and ongoing periodic inspections by the FDA, including unannounced inspections for compliance with applicable requirements. We are subject to monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting obligations for medical device adverse events and malfunctions; notification of our products’ defects or failure to comply with the FDA’s laser regulations; and reporting of recalls, corrections, or removals of our products. The FDA also imposes requirements for the labeling of our products, and places limitations on claims we are permitted to make about our products in promotional labeling. The Federal Trade Commission has jurisdiction over the advertising of all of our products, which are non-restricted devices, and exercises oversight in coordination with the FDA.

Current wording

The FDA imposes a broad range of additional requirements on medical device companies. Our products must be produced in compliance with the applicable requirements of the Quality Management System Regulation (QMSR), which incorporates by reference the quality management system requirements of ISO 13485:2016, replaced the former Quality System Regulation (QSR), and went into effect in February 2026, and our manufacturing facilities are subject to establishment registration and device listing requirements from the FDA, and similar requirements from certain state authorities, and ongoing periodic inspections by the FDA, including unannounced inspections for compliance with applicable requirements. We are subject to monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting obligations for medical device adverse events and malfunctions; notification of our products’ defects or failure to comply with the FDA’s laser regulations; and reporting of recalls, corrections, or removals of our products. The FDA also imposes requirements for the labeling of our products, and places limitations on claims we are permitted to make about our products in promotional labeling. The Federal Trade Commission has jurisdiction over the advertising of all of our products, which are non-restricted devices, and exercises oversight in coordination with the FDA.

Previous wording

In addition, we are also subject to varying product standards, packaging requirements, labeling requirements, tariff regulations, duties and tax requirements. As a result of our sales in Europe, we are required to have all medical device products “CE” marked, an international symbol, affixed to all our medical device products demonstrating compliance with the European Medical Device Directives and/or Medical Device Regulations (“MDR”) and all applicable standards. While currently all our released medical device products are CE marked, continued certification is based on the successful review of our quality system by our European Registrar during their periodic audits. Any loss of certification would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. There are several major regulatory changes occurring in the regulation of medical devices in the European Union (the “EU”). The revision of the quality system regulation (ISO 13485:2016) has been released that substantially increased the requirements for a medical device quality system. The MDR has replaced the medical device directives (93/42/EEC), and it substantially changes the way that medical devices are brought to market in the EU and how they maintain compliance throughout the product’s life cycle. Due to the UK’s exit from EU (“Brexit”), different rules will apply in Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland), Northern Ireland and the EU after the Brexit transition period, which began January 1, 2021. Similarly, Switzerland has changed its relationship with the EU and in May 2022, will require medical device manufacturers, including us, to contract with a Swiss authorized representative. Additionally, the new revision 4 of the clinical evaluation report guidance document (MEDDEV 2.7.1) and the Medical Device Coordination Group (MDCG) guidance regarding clinical evidence (MDCG 2020-6) severely restricts the use of substantial equivalence for new products, resulting in the need for formal clinical trial data for many products. These and future changes will increase the cost for compliance and for product development, and they lengthen product introduction cycles. Failure to comply with these changes and any future changes can have an adverse effect on our ability to release new products in a timely manner.

Current wording

In addition, we are also subject to varying product standards, packaging requirements, labeling requirements, tariff regulations, duties and tax requirements. As a result of our sales in Europe, we are required to have all medical device products “CE” marked, an international symbol, affixed to all our medical device products demonstrating compliance with the European Medical Device Directives and/or Medical Device Regulations (“MDR”) and all applicable standards. While currently all our released medical device products are CE marked, continued certification is based on the successful review of our quality system by our European Registrar during their periodic audits. Any loss of certification would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. There are several major regulatory changes occurring in the regulation of medical devices in the European Union (the “EU”). The revision of the quality system regulation (ISO 13485:2016) has been released that substantially increased the requirements for a medical device quality system. The MDR has replaced the medical device directives (93/42/EEC), and it substantially changes the way that medical devices are brought to market in the EU and how they maintain compliance throughout the product’s life cycle. Due to the UK’s exit from EU (“Brexit”), different rules will apply in Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland), Northern Ireland and the EU after the Brexit transition period, which began January 1, 2021. Similarly, Switzerland has changed its relationship with the EU and in May 2022, will require medical device manufacturers, including us, to contract with a Swiss authorized representative. Additionally, the new revision 4 of the clinical evaluation report guidance document (MEDDEV

Previous wording

We are currently required to demonstrate and maintain compliance with the FDA’s QSR, or QMSR when it goes into effect. The QSR is a complex regulatory scheme that covers the methods and documentation of the design, testing, control, manufacturing, labeling, quality assurance, packaging, storage and shipping of our products. Because our products involve the use of lasers, our products also are covered by a performance standard for lasers set forth in FDA regulations. The laser performance standard imposes specific recordkeeping, reporting, product testing and product labeling requirements. These requirements include affixing warning labels to laser products, as well as incorporating certain safety features in the design of laser products. The FDA enforces the QSR and laser performance standards through periodic unannounced inspections. We have been, and anticipate in the future being, subject to such inspections. Our failure to take satisfactory corrective action in response to an adverse QSR inspection or our failure to comply with applicable laser performance standards could result in enforcement actions, including a public warning letter, a shutdown of our manufacturing operations, a recall of our products, civil or criminal penalties, or other sanctions, which would cause our sales and business to suffer.

Current wording

We are currently required to demonstrate and maintain compliance with the FDA’s QMSR, which went into effect in February 2026. The QSMR is a complex regulatory scheme that covers the methods and documentation of the design, testing, control, manufacturing, labeling, quality assurance, packaging, storage and shipping of our products. Because our products involve the use of lasers, our products also are covered by a performance standard for lasers set forth in FDA regulations. The laser performance standard imposes specific recordkeeping, reporting, product testing and product labeling requirements. These requirements include affixing warning labels to laser products, as well as incorporating certain safety features in the design of laser products. The FDA enforces the QSMR and laser performance standards through periodic unannounced inspections. We have been, and anticipate in the future being, subject to such inspections. Our failure to take satisfactory corrective action in response to an adverse QSMR inspection or our failure to comply with applicable laser performance standards could result in enforcement actions, including a public warning letter, a shutdown of our manufacturing operations, a recall of our products, civil or criminal penalties, or other sanctions, which would cause our sales and business to suffer. If we or any of our suppliers or contractors fail to meet the regulatory requirements or a regulatory inspection, our operations could be disrupted and our manufacturing interrupted.

Previous wording

Subsequent legislation, guidance, regulations or audits that differ from our prior assumptions and interpretations, or other factors which were not anticipated at the time we estimated our tax provision could have a material adverse effect on our business, cash flow, results of operations or financial condition.

Current wording

Subsequent legislation, guidance, regulations or audits that differ from our prior assumptions and interpretations, or other factors which were not anticipated at the time we estimated our tax provision could have a material adverse effect on our business, cash flow, results of operations or financial condition. For example, recently enacted California legislation limits the use of state net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2024 and before January 1, 2027. As a result of this legislation or other unforeseen reasons, we may not be able to utilize some or all of our NOLs, even if we attain profitability.

Previous wording

The trading price of our common stock has been subject to wide fluctuations in response to a variety of factors, some of which are beyond our control, including changes in foreign currency exchange rates, quarterly variations in our operating results, announcements by us or our competitors of new products or of significant clinical achievements, changes in our capital structure, including future issuances of securities or the incurrence of debt and the exercise or conversion of our outstanding convertible promissory notes and shares of Series B Preferred Stock, changes in market valuations of other similar companies in our industry and general market conditions, including market volatility due to investor concerns regarding inflation and geopolitical conflicts and tensions, such as the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts. During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024, the closing trading price of our common stock fluctuated from a low of $1.36 per share to a high of $1.90 per share. During the fiscal year 2024, the closing trading price of our common stock fluctuated from a low of $1.36 per share to a high of $3.53 per share. There can be no assurance that our common stock trading price will not suffer declines. Our common stock may experience an imbalance between supply and demand resulting from low trading volumes and therefore broad market fluctuations could have a significant impact on the market price of our common stock regardless of our performance.

Current wording

The trading price of our common stock has been subject to wide fluctuations in response to a variety of factors, some of which are beyond our control, including changes in foreign currency exchange rates, quarterly variations in our operating results, announcements by us or our competitors of new products or of significant clinical achievements, changes in our capital structure, including future issuances of securities or the incurrence of debt and the exercise or conversion of our outstanding convertible promissory notes and shares of Series B Preferred Stock, changes in market valuations of other similar companies in our industry and general market conditions, including market volatility due to investor concerns regarding inflation and geopolitical conflicts and tensions, such as the Russia-Ukraine and Middle East conflicts. During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025, the closing trading price of our common stock fluctuated from a low of $0.89 per share to a high of $1.23 per share. During the fiscal year 2025, the closing trading price of our common stock fluctuated from a low of $0.79 per share to a high of $1.83 per share. There can be no assurance that our common stock trading price will not suffer declines. Our common stock may experience an imbalance between supply and demand resulting from low trading volumes and therefore broad market fluctuations could have a significant impact on the market price of our common stock regardless of our performance.

Previous wording

Specifically, pursuant to the Novel Securities Purchase Agreement, we issued an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock. With respect to any matter submitted to the vote of the holders of common stock, the holders of the Series B Preferred Stock are entitled to vote the whole number of votes equal to the number of shares of common stock into which such holder’s Series B Preferred Stock would be convertible on the record date for the vote or consent of stockholders at a conversion price of $10 per share of common stock rounded to the nearest whole share together, subject to certain limitations. The Series B Preferred Stock also ranks senior to the Common Stock and any other pari passu capital stock of the Company with respect to dividends, distributions and payments upon a liquidation event.

Current wording

Specifically, pursuant to the Novel Securities Purchase Agreement, we issued an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock. With respect to any matter submitted to the vote of the holders of common stock, the holders of the Series B Preferred Stock are entitled to vote the whole number of votes equal to the number of shares of common stock into which such holder’s Series B Preferred Stock would be convertible into a number of shares of common stock on the record date for the vote or consent of stockholders determined by dividing the purchase price of $10.00 per share of Series B Preferred Stock by an initial conversion price of $2.00 per share, which may be revised through amendment and/or restatement of our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation that is approved by our stockholders. The Series B Preferred Stock also ranks senior to the Common Stock and any other pari passu capital stock of the Company with respect to a bankruptcy or Change of Control Event (as defined in the Designations, Powers, Preferences and Relative and Other Special Rights and the Qualifications, Limitations and Restrictions of Such Series of the Series B Preferred Stock).

Previous wording

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation empowers the board of directors to establish and issue a class of preferred stock, and to determine the rights, preferences and privileges of the preferred stock. These provisions give the board of directors the ability to deter, discourage or make more difficult a change in control of our company, even if such a change in control could be deemed in the interest of our stockholders or if such a change in control would provide our stockholders with a substantial premium for their shares over the then-prevailing market price for the common stock. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws contain other provisions that could have an anti-takeover effect, including the following:

Current wording

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation empowers the board of directors to establish and issue a class of preferred stock, and to determine the rights, preferences and privileges of the preferred stock. These provisions give the board of directors the ability to deter, discourage or make more difficult a change in control of our company, even if such a change in control could be deemed in the interest of our stockholders or if such a change in control would provide our stockholders with a substantial premium for their shares over the then-prevailing market price for the common stock. Subject to the rights of holders of Preferred Stock under specified circumstances, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws contain other provisions that could have an anti-takeover effect, including the following:
Rearranged current paragraphs (1)

Current report — wording carried from elsewhere

2.7.1) and the Medical Device Coordination Group (MDCG) guidance regarding clinical evidence (MDCG 2020-6) severely restricts the use of substantial equivalence for new products, resulting in the need for formal clinical trial data for many products. These and future changes will increase the cost for compliance and for product development, and they lengthen product introduction cycles. Failure to comply with these changes and any future changes can have an adverse effect on our ability to release new products in a timely manner.