Welch Allyn launches iExaminer remote imaging system

Welch Allyn has announced the launch of a new ophthalmic imaging product called iExaminer, which enables remote eye imaging using an Apple iPhone 4 or 4S.

Consisting of a hardware adapter and associated software, the system allows healthcare providers to capture, store, send and retrieve images from the Welch Allyn PanOptic Ophthalmoscope using a smartphone application.

Users can employ the iExaminer adapter to align the optical access of the PanOptic to the visual axis of the iPhone camera, allowing them to capture detailed visual information on the fundus and retinal nerve in an undilated pupil.

Dr Wyche Coleman, inventor of the iExaminer, said he was able to use this system to instantly send patient data from the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro to Johns Hopkins University in the US for analysis.

"This is the first affordable device to give almost anyone, anywhere the ability to capture a picture of the back of the eye," he added.

Last month, the company announced plans to extensively restructure its business to maximise future growth potential, with three distinct new product development and technology centres to be created.