Smartscope PRO: Imaging on the go

Being able to capture with ease high resolution images of the retina of adequate field using a portable device has long been wished for by many a practitioner. The strong association between eye health and age, the changing UK demographic profile and the increasing numbers of elderly who are housebound or have mobility problems mean this is not a selfish demand. Added to this, the ability to complement desktop cameras in a busy practice with one that can be carried between consulting rooms makes a good portable camera yet more attractive.

Over the last decade I have tried many a portable system, and a significant improvement in each subsequent design has been apparent. Resolution has improved, systems have become lighter, image transfer has developed to embrace wireless technology, and supporting software has allowed images to be manipulated or enhanced to levels that are clinically more than acceptable. One main hurdle has always been ease of use, with too many images out of focus or significantly contracted by shadowing or reflections. I recently got hold of the new Optomed Smartscope PRO (UK distributor Mainline Instruments) and, with these expectations in mind, tried it out.