Spotlight ON TECHNOLOGY & TECHNIQUE

A Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscope: Unplugged

By Leslie Goldberg, Associate Editor

Heine's unplugged head-worn battery system for use with the Omega 500 Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscope is designed to provide Omega 500 users with additional freedom and flexibility when working with a patient.

Features of the Omega 500

The unplugged head-worn battery system represents an additional step forward in the performance and flexibility of the Omega 500. Based on the optical performance of the Omega 180, but 30% lighter, the Omega 500 has been optimized for better views of the fundus.

"I have used Omega 500s in the office for 2 years and have been very satisfied with them," says Dwain Fuller, M.D., of Texas Retina Associates of Dallas. "The key features are the excellent light source and comfortable head band, as well as the small-pupil feature and adjustable light size. With our indirect ophthalmoscopes without true small-pupil capacity, obtaining a reliable fundus view through a small pupil is virtually impossible due to glare. Recently we have started replacing our OR ophthalmoscopes with the Heine product."

A multi-coated illumination system, featuring an XHL xenon halogen technology bulb, reduces corneal reflexes and ensures clear, high-resolution images of the fundus, which are up to 100x brighter. The patented "Synchronized Adjustment of Convergence and Parallax System" allows for the precise selection of observation and illumination optics for any pupil size and has been optimized for even better functionality in small pupils down to 1.0 mm.

The Unplugged System

The Unplugged system is an additional Omega 500 power option, not a specific model. All circuitry is contained in the Unplugged battery module, not hardwired into the headband or the instrument itself. This makes the system completely modular, just like all other Heine BIO power source options.

"The instrument is very light-weight and provides up to 2 hours of brilliant light without recharging," says Dr. Fuller. "Not having a cord to trip over or sling from shoulder to shoulder while moving around the patient is a huge asset. I am in the process of upgrading my current Omega 500s to the wireless model. And, of course, another major advantage of the battery-powered Heine is the ability to put it into my briefcase and head to the hospital to take care of a consult."

Users can switch between all power source options quickly and easily, allowing for easy adaptation to a new environment. Current Omega 500 users can also upgrade to the Unplugged system easily. No other cord-free system offers this kind of flexibility to its users.

The Omega 500 Unplugged is the only head-worn battery system with a multiple LED system that tells users how much capacity is left in the battery. Additionally, the Omega 500 Unplugged is the only head-worn battery system that provides users with multiple options for charging and powering the battery. The Unplugged system is also the only "cable-free" system with independent UL approvals for the transformers and the battery. Competitive systems have UL approvals for the transformers only.

Another important aspect of the Unplugged is the design of the headband. It has been improved to accommodate the battery system in the most comfortable manner possible. The headband has Heine's exclusive articulating rear band that allows the battery to be positioned in a downward angle, reducing the "see-saw" effect felt with other systems. OM

For more information on the Omega 500 Unplugged system, call (800) 367-4872 or visit www.heine.com