Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT) Retina Module Premium Edition Features Edema Indexes and Retinal-Thickness-Measuring Capabilities (11/01/06)

New Retina Module Premium Edition enhances ability to detect and track retinal pathologies

VISTA, CALIFORNIA – November 1, 2006 – Heidelberg Engineering, the leading developer of laser diagnostics for ophthalmic applications, announced the release of its HRT Retina Module Premium Edition. This new software features advanced capabilities to precisely evaluate retina thickness and to help detect macular edema.

Technical advances seen in this highly sophisticated device allow clinicians to accurately measure structural changes to the retina which is critical to diagnosing and treating serious conditions including:

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)
Cystoid Macular Edema (CME)
The HRT uses laser technology to produce a topographical image of a patient’s optic nerve, providing an objective analysis of the structure’s cup, rim and retinal nerve fiber layer. The HRT Retina Module tops the market in speed, volume and precision. These advantages allow for minimizing eye movement artifact, because images are taken up to ten times faster than those of other imaging devices. The HRT acquires 200 times more data and scans 32 times more images-per-exam, which help deliver the most accurate test results possible. Utilizing vessel patterns and other landmarks, the HRT precisely aligns scans for composite images that clearly document changes over time.

Among the appealing features of the HRT Retinal Module—Premium Edition PowerCheck™ are:

§ Color-coded 2-D and 3-D thickness maps of the retina.
§ Edema Index that can reveal early structural change
§ Automatic image alignment for follow-up investigations
§ Thickness map overlaid on vessel pattern for comparison with color fundus, FA and ICGA
§ Detect structural change from DME at a preclinical stage
§ Real-time quality checks with instant operator feedback
§ Quick patient review, non-invasive, with or without dilation
§ Free positioning of ETDRS grid

HRT users appreciate that this new module fits all existing HRT units, and no additional hardware is required at installation*.

For further information visit www.HeidelbergEngineering.com; or to arrange a demonstration call: 1-800-931-2230.

* Computer processors < 2.0 GHZ need to be upgraded