Researchers from Tohoku University in Japan have developed a portable artificial intelligence (AI) powered slit lamp that is capable of delivering anterior segment biometry.
Writing in Scientific Reports, the researchers shared that the system combines a motorised scanning mechanism with synchronised imaging, and an on-device deep learning model. The device was developed at a material cost of under USD 500 (£374).
A clinical study with 170 participants found that estimation of anterior chamber depth with the portable device showed “excellent agreement” with anterior segment optical coherence tomography.
“These results establish the first ultra–low-cost platform capable of automated, quantitative, and anatomically calibrated anterior segment imaging, offering a scalable foundation for community screening and teleophthalmology in resource-limited settings,” the authors noted.
The scientists shared that the portable device was used to image both healthy participants and those with anterior segment pathology.
“The device consistently produced high-contrast slit [lamp][ images that revealed clinically relevant ocular structures and abnormalities,” the researchers noted.
Participants reported that the device was comfortable to use – with minimal glare or photic discomfort compared with conventional slit lamp examinations.
“This was attributed to the device’s lower-intensity, narrow slit [lamp] illumination and brief scanning duration,” they researchers shared.
AloJapan.com