Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: Retinal biometric scanners are used commercially and by the military to control access to sensitive areas. It is possible that changes to the retinal blood vessel architecture, either by disease or after treatment, will alter a person’s retinal "fingerprint." This study will determine if the ICAM 2001, a commercially available retinal biometric scanner, is sensitive enough to detect retinal changes after focal laser treatment for diabetic macular edema. Methods: Seven study subjects were selected based on their need for focal macular grid laser treatment according to ETDRS or other clinical criteria, as well as their ability to complete a baseline retinal scan. Controls consisted of 7 consecutive retinal patients who do not require laser treatment and were willing to participate. Each patient completed a 45 second baseline scan prior to laser treatment, and a second scan at their two week follow–up. The scans were performed by clinic ophthalmic photographers. The primary outcome was the ability to pass a follow–up scan at two weeks. Based on industry data, it was expected that 99.6% of untreated controls would pass this follow–up scan, while a much lower number of treated patients would pass. Results: Of the seven test subjects, four were rejected consistently for three tries. As expected, all control patients passed the two week follow–up scan after three tries. Conclusions: The ICAM 2001 biometric retinal scanner is significantly sensitive to detect retinal changes produced by laser focal macular grid treatment. This device is much less expensive than medical grade retinal cameras, is easily administered, and does not require dilation. This technology, if adapted to screening for progression of diabetic retinopathy or for retinal laser injuries in high risk populations, would offer a cost effective alternative to current screening modalities.
Keywords: retina • laser • diabetes