Pattern Scan Laser improves Retinal Treatment Outcomes

An innovative laser system has been designed for the treatment of retinal diseases such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy, choroidal neovascularization, age-related macular degeneration, and retinal tears and detachments.

The PASCAL (Pattern Scan Laser) photocoagulator is intended for use in the treatment of ocular pathology, and is indicated for use in photocoagulation of both posterior and anterior segments including panretinal, focal, and macular grid photocoagulation. The technology platform is based upon the use of a proprietary, semi-automated, pattern generation method employing short 532-nanometer laser pulses. This method of photocoagulation allows delivery of a predetermined pattern by scanning the placement of the laser spots and controlling the emission of the laser light. Up to five predetermined pattern types can be selected, including square arrays for panretinal photocoagulation; triple arcs for retinal tears, lattice degeneration and panretinal photocoagulation; and focal, full, and modified macular grids. The laser pulses are delivered in a rapid predetermined sequence resulting in improved precision, safety, patient comfort, and a significant reduction in treatment time compared with single-spot photocoagulation.

The fully integrated system incorporates an intuitive touch screen user interface, pattern scanner technology, an advanced optics slit lamp with a mounted micromanipulator, dual slit lamp mounted rotary power controls, proprietary PrecisionSpot laser delivery, a wheelchair accessible table, and other ergonomic features for both the physician and patient. The PASCAL photocoagulator is a product of OptiMedica (Santa Clara, CA, USA) and the winner of a gold medal at the 2007 Medical Design Excellence Awards.

Pre-clinical animal studies, as well as initial pilot studies in humans indicate that in addition to reducing treatment duration for typical patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy, the number of sessions may also be reduced.


Related Links:
OptiMedica