Study demonstrates benefit of digital technology in fundus exams

In a study comparing retinal imaging techniques, it was found that incorporating digital technology in fundus examinations markedly enhanced the detection of retinal lesions associated with age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, according to a press release from Optos.

The purpose of this study, which was conducted at the New England College of Optometry, was to evaluate the ability of a fundus examination assisted by Optomap (Optos, Marlborough, Mass.) to detect retinal lesions in comparison with traditional ophthalmoscopy, according to the release.

Retinal imaging methods enhanced by digital technology identified 90% to 100% of these lesions in 339 eyes compared to only 15% to 62% using the traditional method, the release said.

The traditional dilated eye exam consisted of binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy and slit lamp biomicroscopy with condensing lenses. The image-assisted method was identical to the traditional method, with the exception that the doctor reviewed Optomap images in conjunction with ophthalmoscopy, according to the release.

“This study further demonstrates the benefits of ultra-widefield retinal imaging," Roy Davis, CEO of Optos, said in the release. "We believe Optomap image-assisted ophthalmoscopy represents an opportunity to improve pathology detection and patient experience and to help a clinician efficiently target the area of the retina in need of further investigation. This targeted approach combined with the ability to electronically document pathologies can save valuable time and effort during examinations and raise the standard of care for patients.”