Just in time for Glaucoma Awareness Month, the world’s first AI-based contactless IOP measuring device has been unveiled by Israeli startup Ophthalmic Sciences. Called IOPerfect, the device uses AI-based visual analysis in a VR-like headset to allow tele-diagnosis and remote monitoring.
The IOPerfect applies mild controlled air pressure within the VR-like headset, while micro-video cameras capture the difference in response to pressure of internal versus external eye blood vessels. This data is uploaded to a secure cloud where analysis takes place and results can be accessed by the clinician for interpretation. The test is performed in under two minutes.
With approximately 75 million affected by glaucoma globally, a device such as this could help fill the gap where access to care is an issue — the IOPerfect can be used at home, in eye-care clinics, emergency rooms, primary care physicians’ offices, nursing homes and at pharmacies offering health services. It also has the potential to save precious time for ophthalmologists and optometrists, while helping improve patient outcomes.
“Growing exposure to phone and computer screens appears to be linked to increased glaucoma prevalence. Along with an aging population, the risk keeps getting higher, increasing the need for early diagnosis. But most importantly, the past year has proven the value of tele-diagnosis and this fact has attracted significant attention from clinicians and investors in our venture,” said Ariel Weinstein, CEO, Ophthalmic Sciences.
“We are excited to have our technology serve as a meaningful tool to help fight the glaucoma epidemic and prevent millions from going blind,” added Weinstein. The company has begun the regulatory process and expects to have the device available in the U.S. and Europe in 2023.
