Remote Controlled Stereo Slit-Lamp for Imaging Inaccessible Patients

Abstract

 

Purpose:

 

To develop a remote controlled slit-lamp system (the Drone) for imaging patients in inaccessible clinical settings.

 

Methods:

 

A slit-lamp (100/16, Carl Zeiss) was modified to accept a motorized X-Y stepper and Z servo-based motion mechanism. Servo-actuated slit angle, width, height, intensity and 5-30x magnification are controlled with a computer system. Utilization of VoIP technology for clinician-patient audio communication and patient position overview is obtained using an overhead camera (1.3 Mp). Integrated graphical user interface with dual high resolution (3.1 Mp) real-time stereoscopic imaging, control/position indicators, overview video and audio was transmitted via local area network, internet and satellite. The remote clinician can use tablets, laptops, or desktop computers to view and control the Drone. Stereo fusion is obtained using prismatic spectacles. The remote clinician has access to an EMR patient chart to input exam results. Videos and EMR data can be stored in both local and remote Drone PC. Internet connectivity enables multiple examiners to simultaneously view, control, and discuss diagnosis and best treatment.

 

Results:

 

The network/internet/satellite connected system was controllable from the US, Europe and Africa while acquiring high resolution, real-time video in all patients. Stereo-viewing of very fine detail was obtained on small and large high resolution monitors, including an auditorium projection system. Thus far, a dozen subjects were imaged under an IRB approved protocol.

 

Conclusions:

 

The robotized remotely operated stereo slit-lamp system allows 3-dimensional stereo-viewing and recording of the patient’s examination via local area network, internet and satellite.  

 

Keywords: anterior segment • clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: systems/equipment/techniques • imaging/image analysis: clinical