The current level of medical innovation in the device and drug space is unparalleled and extremely exciting. One of the newer and very promising devices approved by the FDA is the Zeiss Cirrus HD-OCT for angiography. This device is the first FDA approved OCT angiography technology and is meant for use in diagnosis and testing for patients with ocular diseases such as cataracts or glaucoma. The new product is garnering a lot of attention from the ophthalmologist community.
One of the key features is that is allows for ultra-clear 3D imaging of microvascular vessels in a completely non-invasive way. The ease and quickness with which the vascular environment can be examined allows for better treatment decisions and in turn improved patient outcomes. The built-in FastTrac system allows for crystal clear images without artifacts due to motion. The system also allows clinicians to spot small areas of pathology which may have been missed using other devices or more traditional methods of screening. The doctor really gets complete control over what to look at and can focus on anything that they may want to examine from clear visualizations of the fovea to tissue examination using a combination of the sophisticated technology embedded within the Cirrus.
The Guided Progression Analysis (GPA) allows for even further functionality by allowing for comparisons of the thickness of RNFL and optic disc measurements over time. Focal regression analysis can easily be conducted by color-coded maps which allow for easy use and interpretation for busy clinicians everywhere.
One drawback of the device may be that the tremendous sophistication can make things confusing when first starting. Thankfully, Zeiss has a full set of CME webinar series which may help doctors stay up-to-date on the latest in technology in the field. Plus, it may even help fulfill some continuing medical education requirements at the same time! Zeiss really offers a full suite of products and services centered around the Cirrus meant to make the process of implementation and use as seamless as possible so you can spend your time doing what you love best- caring for your patients.
The Zeiss Cirrus HD-OCT really offers ophthalmologists treating any patient an improved way to take a look at the disease state and patient-specific variables which are crucial to disease progression and treatment. It can be used effectively in patients as diverse as those with diabetic retinopathy to those with glaucoma to age-related macular degeneration. A demo can be requested from the manufacturer, Zeiss, for any healthcare institution or provider that is interested in learning more about the medical device.
Image credit: Zeiss Cirrus HD-OCT (www.patternless.com)