At The Retina Clinic London, we have devised a unique way of examining patients which means that your consultation will almost certainly be much longer than what you are used to. This is because Professor Stanga and his team have been able to put under one roof, the most advanced imaging equipment in any private retina-dedicated clinic. This allows for the most complete visualisation of the back of your eye and more accurate diagnosis.
We are also fortunate to have the latest in medical devices for the treatment of retinal conditions including retinal lasers, YAG lasers, and PhotoBiomodulation therapy, amongst others.
See below to find out more about the technologies we will be using to help you.
Cutting-edge Ophthalmic Imaging Technology
In addition to industry standard retinal diagnostic and treatment devices, we have access to the latest technology in the field including:
Optos® Silverstone Ultra-Widefield Retinal Imaging Scanner with Navigated OCT
The Optos® Ultra-Widefield Retinal Imaging scanner is able to capture up to 200 degrees in viewing angle whilst many others in the ophthalmology industry restrict the viewing to a 45 degree angle. Therefore, masking the peripheral retina and its pathologies.
The Optos® Ultra-Widefield Retinal Imaging scanner uses a series of wavelengths to penetrate different layers of the eye to map and visualise the back of the eye.
An example of using wavelengths is in the early diagnosis of Dry ARMD whereby short blue light wavelengths is utilised for the diagnostic test known as Fundus Auto-flourescence.
This imaging technology allows for Ultra-Widefield Fundus Flourescein Angiography, an excellent tool to assess the retinal blood flow and diagnosis of abnormal blood vessels within the macula region, the central part of the retina, up-to the peripheral retina with high resolution. The use of a dye injected into the vein of your arm can detect conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and vein occlusion. There is no radiation used and the broad retinal views captured during the angiography can enable the early diagnosis, planning and management into your treatment.
We are fortunate to be one of the few clinics in the world to have the brand new Optos Silverstone device with an integrated OCT scanner, which allows for our team of dedicated technicians to immediately image any abnormalities they see on the image of the retina. This allows for mainly peripheral pathologies to be diagnosed earlier and more accurately. In many cases this can be the difference between deciding whether or not to treat.
Intalight Dream® OCT Ultra-widefield OCT
The Intalight Dream OCT® is the first-of-its-kind Ultra-Widefield Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography (SS-OCT) which obtains non-invasive scans which provide a cross-sectional view of the vitreous, retina and choroid. This new technology uses infrared wavelengths to perform 26mm x 21mm scans with an 130° viewing angle and a depth of 12 mm thus allowing high contrast and resolution visualisation from the Vitreous (clear gel filling the space between the lens and retina) all the way through to the Sclera. This device is the first to be used in the United Kingdom and can detect the integrity of the vitreous and retina e.g. a full vitreous detachment or retinal detachments with underlying fluid. The cross-sectional scans allow for accurate diagnosis thus implementing a suitable management or treatment to your condition.
Heidelberg Spectralis®
Heidelberg Spectralis is a highly important OCT device which serves as the cornerstone of high-quality imaging in all clinics which do research and clinical trials, such as ours. This OCT devices perform very high-resolution scans of the macula (the central part of the retina responsible for central vision), and is the gold-standard in imaging the progression of age-related macula degeneration at all stages.
It is also used for its high-resolution scans of the optic nerve head when monitoring for conditions such as glaucoma.
Swept-Source DRI Topcon Triton® OCT
Swept-Source OCT technology combines faster scanning and infra-red light for superior visualisation compared to standard OCT scanners. Infra-red light used is invisible, making the scan more comfortable and less distracting for the patient.
This new and advanced imaging technology allows better identification of the outer layer of the vitreous (the clear gel that fills the space between the lens and the retina), the interface between the vitreous and the retina and a greater number of layers within the retina itself as well as under the retina, all with the same sensitivity. This technology allows the visualisation of the intraocular structures in 3D, which makes it easier for the patient to understand the internal architecture of the eye. SS-OCT can take detailed high-quality images which are less affected by eye-movements and cataract formation compared to standard scanners.
This test can confirm or rule out Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) and is an important diagnostic test for patients with reduced or distorted central vision, for example in the presence of an Epiretinal Membrane (ERM) or Macular Hole.
Swept-Source DRI Topcon Triton® OCT also allows the assessment of retinal blood flow and the diagnosis of abnormal blood vessels in the macula, the central part of the retina, in a non-invasive manner without the need of an injection of dye in the vein of your arm. This is an important diagnostic test for Diabetic Maculopathy and Retinopathy and patients with AMD.
This technology aids early detection, management & monitoring of vitreo-retinal conditions.
Macula Integrity Assessment (MAIA)
At The Retina Clinic London, the Macula Integrity Assessment (MAIA) microperimetry device stands as a cornerstone in our commitment to comprehensive retinal care. Specifically designed for precise assessments of retinal function and sensitivity, MAIA plays a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring a spectrum of conditions, including macular degeneration and genetic retinal diseases. In addition to aiding in routine patient care, MAIA’s advanced capabilities are instrumental in conducting clinical trials focused on macular degeneration. Its ability to map retinal function with high resolution is particularly valuable in understanding the progression of genetic retinal diseases, guiding personalized treatment approaches. By integrating cutting-edge technology like MAIA, The Retina Clinic London ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care, with a focus on early detection, tailored treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring to preserve vision and improve outcomes.
Intalight Dream OCT® Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
The Intalight Dream Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCT-A) represents a significant advancement in retinal care at The Retina Clinic London. With its ability to provide detailed maps of the macula’s blood supply, this technology plays a vital role in our diagnostic capabilities. By assessing microvascular changes, it assists in the early detection of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, enabling timely intervention when necessary. Its non-invasive nature makes it suitable for routine use in our clinic, aiding in the ongoing monitoring of our patients’ retinal health. Moreover, the Intalight Dream OCT can sometimes remove the need for Fundus Fluorescein Angiography or provide an indication as to whether one is needed. Through the Intalight Dream OCT, we’re able to provide tailored care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Adapt Dx® Dark Adaptation
Dark Adaptation Is intended to detect, measure, monitor and manage Age Related Macula Degeneration. The purpose of this test is to measure the dark adaptation response from a bright flash stimulus. It can identify patients at risk of developing AMD 3-5 years before any visible changes can be seen during an eye examination [Owsley et al. 2016]
Topcon IS-600III Slit Lamp Biomicroscopy
The Topcon IS-600III Slit Lamp Biomicroscopy, an essential tool in our daily ophthalmic clinical practice at The Retina Clinic London. With its remarkable imaging capabilities, this slit lamp allows for the capture of detailed images of the anterior segment and lens, aiding in the diagnosis of common conditions like cataracts and lens posterior capsular opacification (PCO). Its precise examinations contribute to our commitment to providing thorough and tailored care to our patients’ ocular health needs.
Topcon CC-100 Phoropter
Topcon CC-100 Phoropter is an automatic device to carry out spectacle prescriptions without the need of placing a pair of frames onto the bridge of your nose. It is widely used in optometric practices and helps with the efficient and accuracy of obtaining your spectacle prescription.
Topcon Autorefractor®
Topcon Autorefractor® can carry out multiple tasks with one simple click on the device. This machine is widely used across optometric practices and UK hospitals. It’s purpose is to estimate your prescription, measure your corneal thickness and curvature of the clear front surface of your eye (cornea) non-invasively, it can also measure your intra-ocular pressures with a simple puff of air to each eye. These measurements are routinely conducted to discover any abnormal changes that can relate to glaucoma.
The Latest Treatments
Pascal® Laser
PASCAL® Pattern Scanning Laser technology uses targeted laser pulses to treat the specific area of the retina. PASCAL® technology employs continuous uniform pulses at high-speed to treat the targeted area which is painless and has fewer side effects compared toother laser technologies. This laser technology offers the potential for reduced loss of vision and visual field in the treatment of Diabetic Maculopathy and Retinopathy.
Laser can be delivered into the eye through a Contact Lens or an Indirect Ophthalmoscope, a headscope worn by Prof. Stanga. The Indirect Ophthalmoscope allows treatment of the extreme retinal periphery and Retinal Tears which may not be reachable through a contact lens.
ELLEX® Laser
The Ellex YAG Laser with Reflex Technology® is a valuable tool at The Retina Clinic London for treating some common ocular conditions. Specifically engineered for precision, this advanced laser system effectively addresses Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO), a common complication following cataract surgery. Prof. Stanga and his team use the YAG laser to provide patients with clear vision by safely and efficiently treating PCO. Additionally, this technology offers a solution for managing Vitreous Floaters and Opacities (VFO), which can impact vision.
Valeda® Photobiomuldation Light Therapy
PhotoBiomodulation Light Therapy is a considered addition to our approach at The Retina Clinic London for early and intermediate macular degeneration. This therapy offers targeted light treatment aimed at addressing drusen, a hallmark feature of these conditions. By applying PhotoBiomodulation, it aims to potentially reduce the accumulation of drusen and support retinal health. While its effectiveness in macular degeneration is still being studied, Valeda PhotoBiomodulation Light Therapy represents a non-invasive approach that may broaden our treatment options. Its application aligns with our commitment to exploring innovative solutions for macular degeneration ensuring that patients always have the widest range of choice in treating their condition
Norlase LION Indirect Laser
The Norlase LION Indirect Retinal Laser is a significant enhancement to the retinal treatment offerings at The Retina Clinic London. This advanced laser system brings several advantages to the table in the management of retinal conditions. With its precise targeting and controlled energy delivery, the Norlase LION empowers Prof. Stanga and his team to conduct retinal laser treatments with exceptional accuracy and efficiency. This is particularly beneficial in addressing peripheral retinal lesions such as a tear or proliferative diabetic retinopathy, where rapid and precise treatment is critical for preserving vision. By incorporating the Norlase LION into our practice, we ensure that patients with retinal lesions requiring urgent intervention can be promptly and effectively treated, safeguarding their visual health.