Robotic slit-lamp for Tele-ophthalmology

Abstract

Most blindness is preventable and many people are unnecessarily blind. Tele-ophthalmology offers great hope to overcome this tragedy. Slit-lamp examination requires specialized skills and, therefore, needs active tele-ophthalmologic solutions to fully actualize its potential. In order to address this challenge, we have developed and tested a robotic slit-lamp system. This paper reports technical details of the system and preliminary data from a clinical trial testing this device and discusses strategies to improve the technology for a successful implementation.