A revolutionary slit lamp video system with a patient display and touch screen interface will enhance patient communication procedures.
Eyewitness has been developed over 18 months by New Zealand ophthalmologist Dr. Tony Wells and product developer Nigel Sharplin. The system was launched at the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) congress in Sydney in March.
While the eye specialist performs a slit-lamp examination, the Eyewitness system captures a video feed from the slit lamp via a beam splitter and camera. The image is then projected onto a high quality micro display in an eye piece that is viewed in real time by the patient. A dioptre adjustment on the patient’s micro display overcomes most patients’ refractive problems so that they can view it clearly.
Using a cursor, the practitioner can point out details and visually explain the eye condition and management plan to the patient.
It can be used on slit-lamps in almost any area of practice and improves communications between practitioners and patients and engages them in the diagnosis
Dr. Wells has a clear view of the many applications for Eyewitness, not only in the ophthalmologists’ practice rooms but also in optometry, surgery and training facilities.
“It can be used on slit-lamps in almost any area of practice and improves communications between practitioners and patients and engages them in the diagnosis.
“I see future applications as a telemedicine tool in remote locations. It can be used in operating theatres to take a video feed of procedures which is where I see it as having a practical application for training registrars,” he said.
“Examining children is made easy… an animation (appears on the screen to) hold their attention.”
