AI screening for diabetic retinopathy

AEYE Health has partnered with Optomed to produce a handheld fundus camera integrated with AI for retinal screening.

The Aurora AEYE combines Optomed’s handheld fundus camera with AEYE Health’s AI-based retinal screening system. The first application planned for the device is screening for more-than-mild diabetic retinopathy.

“You can screen your patients using the device. It takes a couple of minutes and you have an instant report and then you’re done,” AEYE Health CEO, Zack Dvey-Aharon told OT. “This really makes screening accessible.”

Analysis takes place securely on the Cloud, Mr Dvey-Aharon said, adding, “The idea is to make it a really quick, simple process.”

With its focus on more-than-mild diabetic retinopathy, it is hoped that the device will cover screening for diabetic patients. The reports from the device will provide analysis indicating whether the patient needs to be seen for a follow-up with their physician.

Individuals can be trained to use the device in a few hours and there is no need for dilation.

Mr Dvey-Aharon explained that the device has been designed for clinics or practices that might be new to diabetic retinopathy screening. The company’s intention is that the device could be used in primary care settings to enable screening and early detection of retinal diseases or diabetic retinopathy changes.

The company has ambitions to develop the device further. Mr Dvey-Aharon said: “Part of our workplan is to add additional capabilities. In our company we have algorithms for a wide range of indications, so we strive to have as broad a range of analytics as possible.”

Asked whether the device could differentiate between drusen, exudate and haemorrhage, or show progression, Mr Dvey-Aharon shared that these were areas the company would be happy to explore in the future.

He added: “Currently in the diabetic retinopathy use-case, it will just tell you if you have a referable case that requires follow-up. Later on it’s definitely the kind of resolution we would be happy to give.”