Development of a non-contact device for the accurate
measurement of intraocular pressure
CASE STUDY
Materials, Advanced Design
&
Manufacturing
97
Background
Glaucoma management requires accurate monitoring
of intraocular pressure (IOP). Current devices to
measure IOP are affected by the natural variations
between patients in the mechanical properties of the
cornea. These monitoring inaccuracies affect around
20%
of patients; as a result some 15% of glaucoma
patients lose their eyesight whilst under treatment.
The project
The University worked with Keeler Ophthalmic
Instruments to develop a non-contact device that could
measure corneal parameters and eliminate their effect
on the IOP measurements. The research sought to
develop simple hardware and software additions to
existing monitoring equipment to keep the extra costs
of the new device as low as possible. Ongoing research
will help to make IOP monitoring much more accurate
when the new technology is introduced into devices.
Outcomes
•
Improved accuracy in intraocular pressure
measurement leading to a potentially significant
improvement in glaucoma management
•
The low cost of the new technology is expected
to ease its introduction into clinical practice and
achieve a good market share.
Partner
Keeler Ophthalmic Instruments
Activity type
Collaborative research, Intellectual Property (IP)
Academic lead(s)
Professor Ahmed Elsheikh, Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Engineering,
Materials and Structures
Funded by
The National Institute of Health Research – Health Technologies Development Programme
