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DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE UPDATE

A LOOK AT THE LATEST OFFERINGS THAT AID IN THE DETECTION OF EYE DISEASE

KEVIN GEE, O.D.

GIVEN THE fact that diagnostic devices aid us in the early detection of ocular disease and enable us to gauge whether our prescribed treatments are working, staying aware of the latest offerings is essential to operating a healthy practice.

Here, I outline the most recent (2016) releases.

ANGIOVUE (OPTOVUE)

This device obtains a scan of the retinal vasculature down to 5 µm sans fluorescein in three seconds, enabling the earliest detection of fine microaneurysms and diabetic changes, Optovue says. Further, the company says the image can be transformed into a 3D scan, so it can be analyzed in cross section.

ANGIOPLEX OCT ANGIOGRAPHER (ZEISS)

An upgrade to ZEISS’ Cirrus 5000 HD, this instrument acquires a scan of the retinal vasculature, requiring no additional practice space.

COMPASS (CENTERVUE)

With this perimeter, two billable diagnostic tests can be obtained. Specifically, the user can overlay a 24-2 plot to determine consistency with optic nerve head structure, and the device provides eye-tracking, auto-focusing and age-matching perimetry results, CenterVue says.

LIPISCAN (TEARSCIENCE)

This high-definition meibomian gland imager allows you to evaluate a patient’s gland structure. The device is meant to be a precursor to the company’s LipiFlow instrument, which uses vectored thermal pulsation technology to apply heat and massage to the meibomian glands with the purpose of eliminating clogs and, thus, enabling natural oil flow to the tear film.

SMAP3D (VISIONARY OPTICS)

This topographer maps out scleral toricity, minimizing chair time and contact lens re-fits, according to the company. In addition, the 3D ability of this scan can help to accurately determine lens vault and tear clearance.

PICTOR WORKSTATION (VOLK)

This is a handheld retinal camera that uses different filters to separate the different layers of the retina. It integrates with your EHR to upload patient names and can transmit images through WiFi or USB cable.

RETINAVUE 100 IMAGER (WELCH ALLYN)

This hand held, non-mydriatic fundus camera is designed for diabetic retinopathy screenings. Specifically, it provides touchless autofocus and automatic image capture and image evaluation to aid in ensuring that high-quality fundus images are transmitted to a team of company-chosen board-certified retinal specialists. These specialists evaluate and, ultimately, provide a diagnostic report and patient care plan the same day, according to the company.

SEVERAL OPTIONS

Whether you see several retina disease, DED or specialty contact lens patients, all these devices can help you to provide your patients with great care. OM

DR. GEE practices in Houston and is an assistant clinical professor at the University of Houston College of Optometry. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, an ABO Diplomate and an OCRT member. Also, he’s on Allergan’s advisory board and is a consultant for Weave Communications. Email him at drgee@geeeyecare.com, or visit tinyurl.com/comment to comment.