The device captures 3D images of the retina, the back of the eye and cornea, and can be added at low cost to a slit lamp, a device commonly used by optometrists.
Patients with conditions such as glaucoma, which is the third most common cause of visual impairment worldwide and affects an estimated 7.7 million people, are often diagnosed by highly trained specialists, who look at photos and give a subjective opinion on the 3D structure of the back of the eye.
Although there are existing instruments for 3D imaging, including optical coherence tomography technology – the machines can cost up to £100,000, often making them too expensive for large-scale population use, especially in low-income countries.
However, optometrists all over the world have access to slit lamps. The new technology is a simple and inexpensive add-on to a standard lamp, and can extend 3D eye imaging to all settings where optometrists are present.
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