Kieran O'Kane

A vision of game-changing eye technology has earned a US patent and could transform the lives of patients with damaging ocular conditions. https://lnkd.in/ezVEFcgz University of East Anglia researchers in Norwich say they have made a significant breakthrough in ocular device technology with the introduction of a novel resin for 3D printing intraocular devices. The innovation has potential to enhance the manufacture of eye implants universally used in cataract and refractive surgeries.  An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is primarily required for people with cataracts, a condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, obscuring vision. They can also be also used to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and presbyopia (when eyes gradually lose the ability to see things clearly up close, as a normal part of aging). Lead author Dr Aram Saeed, Associate Professor in Healthcare Technologies at UEA's School of Pharmacy, said: “For the first time, we have developed a resin that can be used to print ocular devices directly. While still in the early stages, the ability to 3D print these lenses could significantly enhance eye care for patients by offering unprecedented levels of customisation and design precision, potentially leading to better clinical outcomes.” “3D printing could significantly enhance the production of ocular devices, not only improving speed and precision in manufacturing but also enabling greater complexity and customisation in design. Our proof-of-concept paper is the first in a series that will detail our developments in this area and set the stage for transforming eye care practices globally.” Aram S. added: “Our work combines material science with healthcare technology and requires extensive know-how in developing these types of ocular devices. As we continue to publish our findings and share our advancements, we aim to be at the forefront of the industry, working with industrial partners and researchers worldwide to refine and enhance the technology.” Co-author Michael Wormstone, Emeritus Professor at UEA’s School of Biological Sciences, said: “If successful in further developments, this new technology could transform the industry by enabling portable manufacturing solutions, especially beneficial in remote and economically disadvantaged areas.” Dr Saeed and Professor Wormstone have a strong partnership with the ophthalmology department at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (NNUH). Anas Injarie, a leading consultant ophthalmologist at NNUH said: “This innovation has the potential to enable the production of lenses that match patient specifications in design and optical performance. “For premium markets, it represents an exciting possibility to provide tailored treatments that could enhance patient satisfaction and surgical success.”

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There are five important factors you should always consider when buying or selling an optical practice. If you have further questions, we would be happy to answer them; please message us to arrange a chat. #Optician #Optical #Opthalmology

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What can NHS dentistry expect from the upcoming election? As the general election approaches and with NHS dentistry a hot topic, Neel Kothari shares his thoughts on the political promises we can expect to hear. https://lnkd.in/eZ4_zie3 #dentistry #nhsdentistry #generalelection #nhsdentistry #politics

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"Asking for feedback is considered a sign of confidence. Acting on feedback is seen as a sign of competence. Asking them how you’re tracking against their feedback is seen as high performance". REBECCA HOUGHTON #ophthalmology #optometry #feedback #confidence #competence #highperformance #jobsearch

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