Improving retinal examination speed and efficiency

Canon Europe, revealed its new CX-1, a world first in retinal imaging technology for the first time at this year's ESCRS Congress.

The CX-1 is a compact and portable hybrid retinal camera that combines both Mydriatic and Non-Mydriatic Modes, and switches between the two at the touch of a button.

Early diagnosis of retinal diseases can be critical and Canon indicates that the point of difference for the CX-1 is that it can used for early detection of AMD without the need for special conditions, for example having to eye drops to dilate the pupil.

That's made possible by the camera's ability to take Fundus Autofluorescence (FAF) images in non-mydriatic mode. In the past that has only been possible in mydriatic mode. The advantages, according to Canon, are that the patient diagnostic experience is a much more comfortable one and it can also save time and resource.

Doctors using the equipment can screen for more than one disease, e.g. AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration), Glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, with the same unit. This saves time and removes the need for repeat appointments.

Mr. Yoshiyuki Masuko, Senior Director, Medical Systems Division, Canon Europa N.V. said of the CX-1, “As well as a step-forward in medical innovation, the compact and adaptable design of the CX-1 also represents years of in-depth research into the technology needs of ophthalmic examination.

“The advanced imaging technology is used to aid accurate diagnosis whilst considering the patient”s needs with a multi-functional design that makes the diagnosis process as comfortable as possible for them.”

The product will be on sale across the EMEA region at the end of September.