Diagnostic Technology
Cataract Screening
The Catatrac Cataract Screening Tester, from Gulden Ophthalmics, is a handheld, user-friendly screening device that can be used on patients of all ages. The device utilizes LED retroillumination to detect cataracts, and it can detect congenital cataracts in infants and young patients. The device is designed for repetitive use—its ergonomic shape, light weight and compact size make it ideal for mass screenings. It’s powered by two AA batteries, which will last for more than 2,000 screenings. Call (215) 884-8105, or go to www.guldenophthalmics.com.
Hybrid Camera
The CX-1 Mydriatic/Non-Mydriatic Digital Retinal Camera, by Canon U.S.A., is a fully hybrid camera that allows the operator to switch between mydriatic and non-mydriatic modes. This camera takes fundus autofluorescence photographs, provides up to 15.1 megapixel resolution and offers five photography modes—non-mydriatic fundus autofluorescence, color, red-free, cobalt and fluorescein angiography. The PC-based Retinal Imaging Control Software that comes with the CX-1 includes an intuitive graphic interface and allows images and data to be saved to external media. Call 1-800-970-7227 or go to www.usa.canon.com/eye-care.
Indirect Ophthalmoscope
The new VantagePlus LED Slimline, from Keeler, features an LED lamp for brighter, whiter light to illuminate the retina in greater detail. Its intelligent optical system automatically changes the optics and mirrors when the aperture is adjusted and provides 3-D stereoscopic views of the retina through all pupil sizes. The lens provides 1.6x additional magnification and can be flipped up when not in use. Also, the VantagePlus LED Slimline features a cushioned, adjustable headband.
Call 1-800-523-5620, or go to www.keelerusa.com.
Comanagement
Laser Therapy Lens
The HR Centralis, from Volk Optical, provides detailed views of the central retina and posterior pole. This indirect, non-contact lens can work with pupils as small as 4mm, and the proprietary double aspheric glass design eliminates distortion and improves stereopsis to the periphery of the 88º field of view. Call 1-800-345-8655, or go to www.volk.com.
Dry Eye
Punctal Occluder
The Micro Flow punctal occluder, from Odyssey Medical, is designed to provide a simple, reversible partial occlusion. It is intended for use in patients with epiphora caused by punctal stenosis or in cases when total punctal occlusion is too aggressive. The Micro Flow is available in small, medium and large, and it is packaged in sterile, pre-loaded containers of one pair per box, or non-sterile bulk packages of five pairs per box. Call 1-888-905-7770 or go to www.odysseymed.com.
Practice Management
Bilingual Communication Tool
The new What to Expect: Eye Care Communication Guide, from Transitions Optical, provides a bilingual tool for eye care professionals to help communicate with Spanish-speaking patients.
The guide includes a series of cards organized by exam segment. Each card includes basic words and phrases listed side-by-side, so that the doctor and patient can find the familiar phrase and point out its counterpart.
The cards include:
• Pathfinder. The typical different areas of a practice.
• Reception. Common phrases used during sign-in and while filling out papers.
• Checkout. Phrases for discussing payment and scheduling return visits.
• Lens and Frame Selection. Lens and frame vocabulary to communicate the doctor’s recommendation and patient lifestyle.
• Pick up. A reading card for patients to test their new glasses.
• Pronunciation. A Spanish phonetic guide to assist professionals with common phrases in Spanish.
Call Transitions Optical Customer Service at 1-800-848-1506, x7448, to request a copy of the guide. Or, go to www.transitions.com.
What's New on the Web
eCommerce Site
Bausch & Lomb presents its enhanced U.S. eCommerce website, with new features that expand eye care professionals’ ordering capabilities.
Now, users are able to:
• View a summary of items currently in their cart.
• View a summary of their 10 most recent orders.
• Take advantage of simplified ordering processes for contact lenses.
• Use one-click access to check the status of product orders and shipment locations.
• Search for an order by date, status, patient name, order number or purchase order number.
Go to www.bauschonline.com.
Office Design
Low Profile, High Style
The new Slimline collection by Eye Designs consists of low-profile, non-illuminated frame displays and cabinets. This collection is aimed at optometrists who have smaller dispensary areas but still want traditional décor in classic hardwoods. Slimline display pieces are available in 56, 70 or 84 frame counts, and come in cherry, oak or maple. Each piece features decorative molding on the header. Base cabinets for additional storage are optional. Call 1-800-346-8890, or go to www.eyedesigns.com.
