Earlier this year, Essilor Instruments introduced the Cellview WRI-1 retinal imaging system to “enable care professionals (ECPs) to detect, diagnose, and monitor a wide range of retinal conditions and pathologies that might otherwise go unnoticed without ultra-widefield (UWF) imaging.”
We spoke to EssilorLuxottica’s Darren Taylor to find out what differentiates this device from other UWF retinal imaging systems on the market.
What is distinctive about the Cellview WRI-1?
The biggest difference is the ease in which the images are captured. Patients simply place their chin on a chin rest, similar to many other devices in a modern practice, and look into the Cellview camera through undilated pupils. With two clicks and a low intensity flash from the camera, the image is captured.
Another benefit of the WRI-1 is its cloud-based storage system, which means in theory you can access images from any configured PC with internet access. We also incorporate the DICOM protocol for the ability to securely share images with ophthalmologists for referral purposes when required.
How does the device’s UWF imaging compare to traditional fundus cameras in detecting early-stage retinal diseases?
Traditional fundus cameras capture an area of the fundus approximately 40-45°, usually centered on the optic disc and macula area. The Cellview WRI-1 captures 133° in a single capture or 200° horizontally in an auto-stitched image. This comprehensive view enables practitioners to detect and monitor a wide range of retinal conditions and pathologies which may have gone unnoticed with narrow field imaging.
What role does infrared reflectance (IR) imaging play in complementing the true-color image, and how does that benefit clinical analysis?
IR imaging is an important addition to a color fundus image as it can be used to improve the visualization of the retina, particularly the deeper structures and sub-retinal features. IR light, specifically near-infrared, penetrates the eye better than visible light, allowing for better visualization of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), choroid, and underlying structures. This can be particularly helpful when dealing with media opacities like cataracts or when visualizing sub-retinal lesions.
What feedback have you received for the device so far?
Our initial feedback from clinicians has been overwhelmingly positive. The simplicity of the capture process is popular with clinicians and patients alike. The competitive pricing of the WRI-1 means practices are able to offer UWF technology to all of their patients for the first time. Being able to image more of the fundus quickly and easily gives the patient the peace of mind that, as practitioners, we truly are examining as much of the fundus as we are able to see.
How do you see UWF imaging shaping the standard of care for ophthalmology and optometry over the next 3-5 years?
UWF imaging seems to be the next area for investment within the industry. It is now almost unthinkable to not have an OCT in practice, and the same will soon be said for UWF imaging. High street multiples and independent practices alike are realizing the benefits new technology can bring to their practices.
The benefits of being able to quickly and simply capture UWF imaging at a price point which is accessible to all will add a new dimension to what we can offer our patients in the near future.
How does the Cellview WRI-1 compare with competitive instruments in terms of price?
We are aware the retail price point of the Cellview WRI-1 is considerably lower than some of the competitor devices. Some of this cost difference is due to technological differences between the devices, and we would always encourage practices to do their research and decide for themselves as to which device suits their needs best. We want to provide high-quality UWF imaging devices that are not only technologically advanced but affordable, but also make innovative retinal imaging accessible to healthcare professionals worldwide and ensure early diagnosis and effective management of eye conditions.
