Intelligent Technology Revolutionizes Eye Disease Detection and Treatment
Intelligent technology is revolutionizing the field of eye disease detection, diagnosis, and treatment, making it more efficient, accurate, and precise. With the advancements in information technology, artificial intelligence, and big data, the healthcare industry is incorporating these technologies to enhance patient care and outcomes. The role of advanced technology, intelligent systems, and new inventions in the health industry cannot be understated, and their impact continues to grow.
One particular area where intelligent technology is making significant contributions is in the detection and treatment of eye diseases. In China, the incidence of cataracts among individuals aged 60 to 89 is about 80 percent, and with the aging population on the rise, the number of cataract cases is increasing as well. In fact, over the past 30 years, the number of cataract surgery patients in the country has nearly increased 38 times, reaching more than 3,000 surgeries per million people in 2020.
Presbyopia, a condition characterized by the loss of near vision due to aging, affects almost all Chinese individuals over the age of 52. Cataracts remain a leading cause of blindness among the elderly, accounting for approximately 46 percent of all cases of blindness. It is estimated that around 200 million elderly Chinese individuals over the age of 60 suffer from both presbyopia and cataracts.
Traditionally, eye surgery has relied heavily on the skills and experiences of surgeons, making it a manual process that is not without its risks and limitations. Even the most experienced doctors cannot guarantee a 100 percent success rate for each surgery. However, intelligent technology, often referred to as smart medicine, is now playing a crucial role in reducing the risk of mistakes and improving treatment outcomes.
Dr. Lu Yi from Bright Eye Hospital explains that intelligent technology is now guiding doctors throughout every crucial step of cataract surgery. In procedures such as femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, surgeons can simply follow the guidance displayed on a computer screen, which offers a higher level of precision, repeatability, and accuracy compared to traditional manual techniques. This technology covers aspects such as incisional astigmatism management, lens centration, and reduced effective phaco energy. As a result, more precise operations lead to fewer complications and faster recovery for patients.
Moreover, smart medicine has also found its application in eye disease screening for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment in grassroots settings. Artificial intelligence is now utilized to enable quick and convenient screening for diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. In Shanghai, a community-district-city intervention and management system is being established, leveraging AI and big data to provide classified health services. Over 70 neighborhood health centers in the city have adopted AI-based eye health management, allowing residents to undergo self-served screenings guided by general physicians. Within just five minutes, a diagnosis report can be generated in 20 seconds, along with relevant suggestions. General physicians can then arrange further treatment and hospital transfers based on the screening result, facilitating early detection and timely treatment.
Eye surgeries, such as cataract and presbyopia surgeries, have evolved beyond merely restoring eyesight to becoming precise refractive surgeries for improved vision and convenience in everyday life. As medical technology continues to advance and people’s expectations for a better quality of life increase, more sophisticated technologies are being introduced and developed to meet these demands.
Dr. Jorn Slot Jorgensen from EuroEyes emphasizes the incorporation of the latest technology from Germany into China, especially in treating presbyopia. Laser surgery for presbyopia can now intervene for individuals aged between 38 and 45, providing early treatment options for this age group. For individuals above the age of 45 with presbyopia, advanced trifocal lens implants offer a range of vision from near to intermediate and distance without the need for glasses post-surgery. Furthermore, the implanted lens does not age, aiding middle-aged and elderly individuals in treating or preventing cataracts.
In conclusion, intelligent technology is transforming the landscape of eye disease detection, diagnosis, and treatment. From precision-guided surgeries to AI-assisted screening systems, these advancements are revolutionizing the field of ophthalmology, offering improved outcomes, reduced complications, and enhanced patient care. As the demand for quality healthcare continues to rise, further developments in technology will likely pave the way for even more innovative solutions to address eye diseases effectively.
