Thirona, a Dutch artificial intelligence company, has launched its RetCAD AI software at the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons' congress in Paris.
The technology can be used to analyse retinal scans for abnormalities, and was specifically developed to recognise macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
RetCAD uses a fundus camera that scans the retina and alerts practitioners if either condition is identified. Patients can then be referred to specialist care without delay. Thirona is working on an extension to RetCAD which increase the number of eye conditions that can be recognised, including glaucoma.
Business development director of RetCAD, Hans Liefting, said: ‘RetCAD enables opticians and optometrists to extend their services. The analysis obtained using our software is on par with one performed by a certified ophthalmologist, and a specialist should be consulted only when a defect has been identified. RetCAD expands the selection of readily available eye care while relieving the workload for eye care specialists.'