MEI adds advanced retinal camera

Marianas Eye Institute now has a Visucam 524 retinal camera made by Zeiss, a world-renowned optics and engineering company. (Contributed Photo)

Marianas Eye Institute recently purchased a “best in class” retinal camera made by Zeiss to enable its clinic staff to provide “the highest quality of care” in diabetes, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

In a statement yesterday, it said that Marianas Eye Institute now has a Visucam 524 retinal camera made by Zeiss, a world-renowned optics and engineering company.

According to MEI chief executive officer Russ Quinn, the clinic purchased the equipment in its ongoing commitment to bring cutting edge technologies and the highest quality eye care to the region.

The Visucam 524 takes photos of the inner layers of the eye—the retina—which is affected by a broad range of diseases.

“For years we have been the only clinic in the CNMI performing fluorescein angiograpy—a test that can record blood flow through the delicate blood vessels of the eye, which is particularly important in diabetic patients,” said Quinn. “The Visucam 524 adds the additional capability of detecting early stages of macular degeneration and other retinal diseases though something called ‘auto fluorescence,’ which is an important non-invasive tool in detecting and following diseased retina.”

The Zeiss camera boasts a 24 megapixel sensor that produces detailed images to effectively aid in detecting and monitoring a broad range of retinal diseases.

Zeiss representative Joanna Givens came to the CNMI to train MEI staff on the use of the new camera.

The Visucam 524 retinal camera sets a new standard with its ultra-high resolution images and superior clarity, which ensure that difficult to detect diseases can be identified by the doctors at Marianas Eye Institute.

“These images are amazing. You can really see so much more detail with this new camera. This will definitely help the doctors detect any problems early on,” said MEI ophthalmic technician Thelma Tenorio.

The camera comes with sophisticated software for processing and viewing the images. One of the most practical elements of the software is a feature that allows the doctors to view the full images as an overview, and also to magnify portions in order to see the smallest details.

“Many years ago, Retinal Physician recognized Marianas Eye Institute as ‘one of the best-equipped eye clinics in the Asia-Pacific region,’” said Quinn. “We are committed to maintaining that standard so our patients know that they have access to the best in the region. This camera ensures that all the people of the CNMI, but particularly those with diabetes, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, will benefit from advances in the field.”

Marianas Eye Institute is staffed by Dr. Dennis Williams and Dr. Mark Robertson, along with eight certified eye care ophthalmic technicians, opticians, and contact lens technicians.