The Visucam Pro Nm

Optician takes a look at one of the latest fundus cameras

The latest fundus camera from Zeiss was on display at Optrafair last year but is now being heavily promoted in the new season. As more practitioners realise the need to have a camera system in practice, it is worth pointing out a number of interesting features of the Visucam Pro non-myd camera (Figure 1).

First, it has a fully integrated camera specifically designed for the purpose, rather than an add-on commercial hand-held camera as is more typical in other units. The computer is also fully integrated and this has the obvious advantage of making the system look compact and streamlined without undue wires and extruding add-ons.

The integrated camera has a 5 megapixel sensor with the option of a 45- or a 30-degree field, making it fully compatible with the requirements for diabetic screening. It also features a very useful 'autoflash' feature.

This allows the camera to regulate the returning light from every image taken to adjust appropriately the settings for subsequent captures. One immediate benefit of this system is a reduction in the number of images with bright reflections detracting from the quality (Figure 2). Another advantage here is that fewer images are needed, which has long-term benefit in terms of storage. Patients should also appreciate fewer flashes being fired at them.

The integrated computer allows image viewing and manipulation on a connected screen, but there is also a USB port for memory key transfer to another system and an integrated DVD-burner for storage, transfer and back-up of data. All of this is easy, quick and free of peripherals.
Another nice feature of the system is its claimed ability to capture images through small pupils.

Obviously all non-myds by definition can be used with undilated patients, but the smaller pupils usually result in loss of quality, shadowing and so on. The small pupil (SP) mode on the camera allows capture through pupils as small as 3.3mm (with a 30-degree field) while the standard setting gives a 45-degree field through pupils of 4mm or more. Figures 3 to 8 shown here were all taken with the system through undilated pupils.

On paper this looks an impressive addition to the camera market. optician will be putting the instrument through its paces later in the year.
For details call Zeiss on 01707 871200.