Volk Optical released their newest product, the ClearPod to solve the problem of mask-related fogging during fundus examinations. This patent-pending design has been created in collaboration with Ophthalmologists Dr. Bradley Sacher, a cataract specialist and Dr. Jeremy Wingard, a glaucoma specialist at Wheaton Eye Clinic, Illinois, USA. Due to safety regulations around the world, mask-wear has truly become commonplace in shared spaces such as clinics and hospitals.
When a patient breathes naturally while wearing a mask, air escapes through the gaps in the mask and accumulates on the lens surface causing condensation and obstructing views of the retina and slowing down the exam. The ClearPod clips securely onto the Volk fundus lens and forms a barrier, directing air currents away from the lens surface allowing for clear uninterrupted views enabling a complete examination. Small and light, the device is designed to allow physicians to retain their natural grip on the lens. The shield on the device is carefully designed to accommodate the right working distance while providing maximum fog diversion.
Apart from solving the problem of fogging, the ClearPod can also be used as an aid for new students learning ophthalmoscopy. “Even after COVID, I think this is a great tool for teaching medical students and residents ophthalmoscopy techniques, as the flange guides and supports to better accommodate the proper working distance. The ClearPod is a perfect solution to prevent non-contact lenses from fogging up. I strongly recommend this device to every ophthalmologist examining a mask-wearing patient, allowing a normal examination of the retina.” says Dr. Francesco Comacchio, an ophthalmologist at Hospital of Merano-Südtirol, Italy.
The ClearPod is currently available for the 90D and the 78D lenses. Volk optical plans to release the ClearPods for their Digital Wide Field and SuperField lenses early this year. You can purchase the ClearPod on volk.com or email [email protected] to place your orders.