New Flex Module for the SPECTRALIS shown for the first time in Copenhagen
Hemel Hempstead, UK – The Flex Module* for the SPECTRALIS imaging platform has been shown in Copenhagen for the very first time from the 9th -13th September at the EURETINA / ESCRS Congress. With its movable stand and an adjustable, flexible arm, the Flex Module enables all SPECTRALIS examinations to be performed on patients lying down in the supine position.
“The Flex Module offers a solution for a very specific clinical set-up”, explains Christopher Mody, Director of Clinical Services. “It enables diagnostic imaging for those who cannot tolerate conventional outpatient imaging techniques, such as elderly and infirm people or patients who are sedated”.
Giovanni Staurenghi discusses the benefits and pitfalls of OCT angiography in new webinar
Hemel Hempstead, UK – Professor Giovanni Staurenghi of the University of Milan, discussed the unique attributes of hybrid angiography at Heidelberg Engineering’s 5th Annual Masterclass in May. His presentation, entitled “OCT Angiography – Benefits and Pitfalls”, is now available to view online and provides a thoughtful and rational look at the role of OCT angiography* in the clinical decision making process as part of a multimodality imaging approach to patient investigation and diagnosis.
“OCT angiography is a new imaging tool and we are still in the learning curve”, explained Professor Staurenghi. “I think discussing its advantages and pitfalls is an important and honest way to approach this new angiography and we have shown that it is advisable to exercise caution when using new technology that we do not necessarily fully understand yet. We know that using multimodal imaging provides a better diagnosis than using single imaging modes alone and it seems OCT angiography will play an important role in multimodal imaging in the future”.
In the recorded webinar, Professor Staurenghi discusses the specific clinical applications of OCT angiography through a series of case studies and the challenges image artefacts and incorrect retinal layer segmentation create for the clinician when interpreting the images that have yet to be overcome by any commercially available device.
*OCT Angiography Module for SPECTRALIS is under development and not yet for sale.
Smart Multimodal Imaging with Heidelberg Engineering at EURETINA and ESCRS 2016
Heidelberg, Germany – At the meetings of the European Society of Retina Specialists (EURETINA) and European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) in Copenhagen from September 9th to 13th Heidelberg Engineering seeks to engage in a dialog about smart multimodal imaging.
Heidelberg Engineering’s presence at ESCRS and EURETINA focuses on the advantages of smart multimodal imaging. In addition to lunch symposia, Heidelberg Engineering will offer short, interactive in-booth presentations about both novel and established diagnostic tools designed to support clinical decision-making.
Among the innovation highlights this year are the latest SPECTRALIS® modules, the new Cataract and Refractive Imaging Platform* and the next generation HEYEX* for ophthalmic image management and device integration. ESCRS/EURETINA is also the occasion chosen for the international launch of the Heidelberg Engineering Business Lounge, an exclusive portal for ophthalmology professionals.
“Clinical practice keeps proving the importance of multimodal imaging in comprehensive diagnostics. In this context we would like to take the discussion further to the concept of smart multimodality imaging: Which imaging modalities make the most sense for specific patients and pathologies? How can they be integrated into a solid and convenient IT infrastructure? We are looking forward to discussing these topics with customers”, said Dr. Kester Nahen, Managing Director of Heidelberg Engineering.
Retina
The Flex Module* for the SPECTRALIS imaging platform will be shown in Copenhagen for the very first time. With its movable stand and an adjustable, flexible arm, the Flex Module enables all SPECTRALIS examinations to be performed on patients lying down in the supine position.
While the Flex Module offers a solution for a very specific clinical set-up, the new OCT2 Module can benefit every SPECTRALIS user. With its high scan rate of 85,000 Hz, this module cuts acquisition time by half and delivers excellent image quality. Additionally, the OCT2 Module provides an ideal platform for future advanced applications such as the OCT Angiography Module*.
For easier detection of peripheral pathologies, the Widefield Imaging Module with its simultaneous 55° fundus and OCT imaging is a very useful tool for retina specialists and general ophthalmologists. The high-resolution, high-contrast scanning laser images captured with this SPECTRALIS module offer diagnostic capabilities beyond those of conventional fundus photography.
Glaucoma
The Glaucoma Module Premium Edition provides a comprehensive analysis of the optic nerve head, retinal nerve fiber layer, and ganglion cell layer by precisely matching unique scan patterns to the fine anatomic structures relevant in glaucoma diagnostics. This glaucoma module compares patients’ eyes to a reference database of normal eyes, noting even very small deviations. The precision of the SPECTRALIS AutoRescan function allows confident identification and monitoring of structural changes from visit to visit.
The speed achieved with the SPECTRALIS OCT2 Module is a great enhancement to the Glaucoma Module Premium Edition. Images are acquired twice as fast as in the past and their quality is also better than with the previous OCT engine due to a high scan rate of 85,000 Hz combined with the TruTrack Active Eye Tracking developed exclusively by Heidelberg Engineering.
Cataract and refractive
The Cataract and Refractive Imaging Platform* utilizes high-resolution, swept-source OCT images to combine the most important examinations for anterior segment diagnostics in one modular, upgradeable system: Topography, tomography, anterior segment biometry and axial length in one workflow-efficient device.
Its key benefits are:
All measurements based on high-resolution swept-source OCT images,
Modular and upgradeable platform to suit different workflow needs,
Supported by the next generation HEYEX* for effective image management and IT integration.
Ophthalmic image management and device integration with the new HEYEX*
As the next generation ophthalmic image management and device integration software module from Heidelberg Engineering, HEYEX is an integral part of all Heidelberg Engineering products. The HEYEX module networks all devices and makes it possible to review examination results simultaneously and interactively. It interfaces with electronic medical record (EMR) systems and third-party devices to allow the secure exchange, storage, and dynamic review of images in a single, centralized IT solution even across different sites.
Launch of the Heidelberg Engineering Business Lounge
With the international launch of this new customer portal, Heidelberg Engineering brings premium digital ophthalmology content by experts for experts. Following a quick registration process, users have access to a wealth of detailed product information and support materials such as e-learning materials, case studies or e-books. Live demonstrations will be provided at the booth during EURETINA/ESCR. For more information please visit: www.he-lounge.com
Symposia and in-booth presentations
Heidelberg Engineering will host a lunch symposium at EURETINA and another one at ESCRS as well as a variety of in-booth presentations:
Lunch symposium at EURETINA:
“Multimodal Imaging of Geographic Atrophy”
Friday, Sept 9 (13:00 – 14:00)
Auditorium A3
Speakers: Giovanni Staurenghi (Italy), Steffen Schmitz-Valckenberg (Germany), SriniVas R. Sadda (USA)
Lunch symposium at ESCRS
“Smart Multimodality Imaging & Quiz”
Sunday, Sept 11 (13:00 – 14:00)
Room B10
Speakers: Yit Yang (United Kingdom) – OCT Angiography – Reality Update; Marco Pellegrini (Italy) – Smart Multimodality Imaging
Topics and schedule of 20-minute in-booth presentations:
Update on OCT angiography
Bruch’s Membrane Opening (BMO) and Optic Nerve Head (ONH) anatomy
Interpretation of MultiColor images
OCT interpretation in glaucoma
Fundus autofluorescence imaging in geographic atrophy (GA)
Innovations in anterior segment imaging
Morning Session 10:30 -10:50
Noon Session 12:40 -13:00
Afternoon Session 16:10 – 16:30
Friday, 9th September
Update OCT Angiography
(Lunch symposium)
BMO – ONH Anatomy
Saturday, 10th September
Interpretation MultiColor
Update OCT Angiography
OCT – Glaucoma
Sunday, 11th September
BMO – ONH Anatomy
(Lunch symposium)
Autofluorescence in GA
Monday,12th September
Interpretation MultiColor
Innovations Ant. Segment
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*Currently under development. Not available for sale.
Learn more about using your SPECTRALIS on YouTube
Hemel Hempstead, UK – Heidelberg Engineering have added an extensive range of videos to their YouTube channel to assist users to get the most out of their SPECTRALIS Imaging Platform. Heidelberg Engineering UK on YouTube A range of ‘how-to’ videos are featured, which provide guidance on acquiring images using the Ultra Widefield Module, as well as the MultiColor, BluePeak Autofluorescence and Anterior Segment Modules. The “Basic image acquisition with SPECTRALIS” video provides a useful starting point for anyone embarking on an OCT assessment of a patient with a simple scanning protocol for the macula and retinal nerve fibre layer.
There are also a number of videos providing instruction on interpreting OCT images, which give clear guidance on how to make valued judgements while scanning, where to place the OCT cross section, how to identify structural changes and pathology and link visual symptoms and history to OCT appearance.
“The how-to videos on our YouTube channel are exceptionally useful to new customers and also serve as a reminder for more experienced users”, explains Christopher Mody, Director of Clinical Services for Heidelberg Engineering. “They are designed to be short reminders of the techniques covered in our comprehensive on-site training and hands-on courses at our Academy training facility in Hemel Hempstead. In addition to the how-to videos, there are a range of case studies which always prove popular at our training days.”
Hospital version:
Sneak peaks of new products and imaging modules are also featured, the latest addition being the Cataract and Refractive Imaging Platform*.
Optometry version:
The latest addition to the YouTube channel is an ITN report highlighting how OCT is being used to diagnose many health conditions, allowing dispensing opticians and optometrists to work closely with the NHS to better diagnose eye conditions and improve patient care.
For print coverage:
View the YouTube videos by visiting www.youtube.com and entering Heidelberg Engineering UK in the search bar.
*The Cataract and Refractive Imaging Platform is under development and not for sale.
Heidelberg Engineering to host Christmas imaging symposium
Hemel Hempstead, UK – Heidelberg Engineering will host a special Christmas edition of the annual International SPECTRALIS Symposium (ISS) on the 25th and 26th November 2016 in Vienna, Austria. The scientific programme will include a broad spectrum of presentations and interactive sessions from experienced users on the latest advances in OCT and fundus imaging. To foster scientific exchange, participants are also encouraged to contribute to the programme with their own study reports and case presentations.
“Over the years, Heidelberg Engineering Academy events have become known for their atmosphere of vibrant scientific exchange”, explains Christopher Mody, Director of Clinical Services. “Participants interested in the latest developments in ophthalmic imaging will be able to take home new ideas and concepts for clinical practice”.
The scientific lectures will take place next to Vienna’s Christmas market at the Gartenpalais Liechtenstein, a unique palace steeped in history with magnificent gardens.
Heidelberg Engineering partners with etCETera to deliver free CET
Hemel Hempstead, UK – Heidelberg Engineering has teamed up with etCETera and CETpoints.com to deliver free CET for optometrists and dispensing opticians. EtCETera is a new free quarterly journal that works in conjunction with CETpoints.com to provide eye care professionals access to a range of educational material. Each issue of etCETera will feature a case study from Heidelberg Engineering and three additional case studies will be available online at CETpoints.com.
OCT scan showing full thickness macular holes with intraretinal cysts
“The case studies include real life examples of macular disease and provide the patient history, OCT and fundus examination results”, explains Christopher Mody, Director of Clinical Services. “They are designed to enhance and test the diagnostic skills of optometrists and dispensing opticians who must diagnose and manage each case correctly and then compare their answers to the feedback from the subject expert.”
Viewing the case studies online and completing the multiple choice questionnaire is worth 1 CET point to both optometrists and dispensing opticians. Participants just simply register for a free account on CETpoints.com to gain access. A new set of case studies and CET will be available with each release of etCETera.
Visit www.cetpoints.com to register to receive etCETera and click on the Heidelberg Engineering tab on the homepage to complete the CET now.
OCT training to suit your needs
Hemel Hempstead, UK – An extensive educational programme of events covering OCT and fundus image acquisition and interpretation are being offered by Heidelberg Engineering. A large number of educational seminars and training days are run frequently nationwide and also at the dedicated training facility in Hemel Hempstead. Delegate numbers at these events are capped to allow the trainers to tailor the course content to the specific requirements of those in attendance and hosting such a large number of events nationwide allows as many eye care professionals as possible the chance to attend.
Heidelberg Engineering has already held a large number of training days at their offices in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire in addition to several CET accredited OCT LIVE events nationwide. OCT training
“The OCT LIVE events offer the unique experience of guiding the delegate through the patient journey, from scanning the patient live in HD on the big screen to interpreting the images and making a decision on patient management”, explains Christopher Mody, Director of Clinical Services. “They are exciting, interactive sessions which challenge the classic case study book format and demonstrate how a multimodal imaging approach can be used in real life to assess a patient’s eye.”
Over the course of 2016 alone, more than 50 CET points have been offered at Heidelberg Engineering courses already and the company is set to add to its CET calendar over the next few weeks.
Visit www.he-academy.com to find out more about the upcoming events and to book your place or call 01442 502 330 to find out more.
ITN report highlights the increasing role of High Street Opticians
Hemel Hempstead, UK – The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) and ITN Productions have released a sponsored report with Heidelberg Engineering as part of the ‘ABDO Insight 2016’ news-style programme which launched in April earlier this year.
“Advances in optical technology have allowed many ocular conditions to be diagnosed on the -High Street via a comprehensive eye health check” explains Christopher Mody, Director of Clinical Services. “Heidelberg Engineering is working closely with dispensing opticians and optometrists to better diagnose conditions and improve patient care in the community”.
In the report, SPECTRALIS owners praise the training received from Heidelberg Engineering which gives them the skills to offer more than a standard eye test and the confidence to refer to an ophthalmologist when signs of disease or change occur.
Introduced by national newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky, the programme also includes interviews with thought-leaders in the industry such as the outgoing president of ABDO, Peter Black. He discusses various topics, including the increasingly active role of dispensing opticians in primary care, the importance of children’s sight tests and the implications of aging population for High Street practices.
Hemel Hempstead, UK – Heidelberg Engineering has again extended the UK support team with the appointment of Kevin Hughes as Technical Support Manager. His appointment comes in an effort to maintain the highest level of customer care following the 450% growth Heidelberg Engineering UK has seen within the last four years.
Kevin has over 16 years’ experience in imaging and IT and specialises in the integration of diagnostic technology with patient management systems. Kevin Hughes joins Heidelberg Engineering
“I have always wanted to work for a truly dynamic company such as Heidelberg Engineering UK that offers such a direct opportunity to contribute and grow” explained Kevin. “Heidelberg Engineering provides comprehensive diagnostic solutions to improve patient care both within the health care service and the community and I am looking forward to being part of the team to ensure customers always receive the highest level of technical support.”
Kevin, who is based in Wrexham in North Wales, will cover the North of England, North Wales and Scotland. He joins an established team supporting SPECTRALIS, HRT and HEYEX data management installations.
Expert panel at annual Masterclass explore the benefits and pitfalls of OCT angiography
Hemel Hempstead, UK – An impressive line-up of speakers discussed the unique attributes of hybrid angiography at Heidelberg Engineering’s 5th Annual Masterclass in May. The presentations included a thoughtful and rational look at the role of OCT angiography* in the clinical decision making process as part of a multimodality imaging approach to patient investigation and diagnosis.
Following their presentations, Professor Giovanni Staurenghi, from the University of Milan, alongside new Retina Faculty Chairman, Pearse Keane, NIHR Clinician Scientist at the Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London and Catherine Egan, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital took questions from the audience as part of an expert panel discussion.
“OCT angiography is a new imaging tool and we are still in the learning curve” explained Professor Staurenghi. “I think discussing its advantages and pitfalls in a forum such as this is a very honest way to approach this new angiography and we have shown that it is important to exercise caution when using new technology that we do not necessarily fully understand yet. We know that using multimodal imaging provides a better diagnosis than using single imaging modes alone and it seems OCT angiography will play an important role in multimodal imaging in the future”.
The panel agreed that OCT angiography is an exciting new technology with specific clinical applications. However, it was highlighted that there are challenges with image artefact and segmentation that have yet to be overcome by any commercially available device.
A webinar of the Masterclass will be available later in the year. Email Academy-UK@HeidelbergEngineering.com to request to be notified when it is released.
*OCT Angiography for SPECTRALIS is under development and not currently for sale.
Hemel Hempstead, UK – The Flex Module* for the SPECTRALIS imaging platform has been shown in Copenhagen for the very first time from the 9th -13th September at the EURETINA / ESCRS Congress. With its movable stand and an adjustable, flexible arm, the Flex Module enables all SPECTRALIS examinations to be performed on patients lying down in the supine position.
