Introducing Cardiovascular Wellness Software in Optometry practice1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Feasibility of introducing Cardiovascular Wellness Software into Optometry practices – A pilot study
IRAS ID
223703
Contact name
Clare Wilson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
RetVas
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 3 days
Research summary
The recent advances in digital images of the retina (at the back of the eye)and the image analysis found a strong correlation between retinal vessel blood changes and cardiovascular disease (CVD). By looking at the retinal images and structure, the high-risk group for CVD can be identified. Analysis by automated software which calculates the retinal arteriolar -to venular ratio (AVR), with a smaller AVR suggesting that now is predictive of risk of stroke and heart attack. However, this prediction is possible provided the images are taken appropriately and all relevant information are fed into the software for further analysis and report generation. Presently, only semi-automated image analysis technique is widely used globally for this purpose. UK based research group developed a fully automated software called RetVas Wellness which can analyse retinal images to detect cardiovascular wellness. The software is in final development stage and this pilot study is to test whether the users (optometrists) can utilize the basic features in the imaging and upload process. All those aged 21 and above accessing the optometry practice for sight check-up from 1/3/2017 to 30/5/2017 will be approached regarding consent for inclusion in the study.
The purpose of this pilot study is to test the feasibility of introducing Retvas Wellness software into regular optometry practice and evaluate each procedure involved in the process, including the ability of the optometrists to take good quality optic nerve centred retinal images and upload all relevant information into the software for analysis.
REC name
South West - Central Bristol Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/SW/0046
Date of REC Opinion
27 Apr 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion