[TECHNOLOGY OPPORTUNITY 2007-014]

Optical 3D Exophthalmometer

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Description:
Despite their widespread clinical use, mirror-based exophthalmometers such as the Hertel and
the Naugle have many known limitations including (1) high variability and low accuracy; (2)
issues with alignment and parallax errors; (3) measurement in AP direction (z-axis) only; and (4)
large errors in cases where there is periorbital swelling or disruption of the orbital rim due to
trauma or surgery. While non-contact approaches like computerized tomography (CT) and
laser scanning have been devised, these techniques increase radiation exposure and require
time-consuming and costly imaging equipment.

To overcome these limitations, researchers at Queen’s University have developed a cost-effective,
non-contact, non-ionizing exophthalmometer. Consisting of two commercially
available digital cameras positioned on a frame mounted to a slit lamp base, this system uses
novel image-based rendering algorithms to construct a 3D computer model of the anterior
surface of the eye and the surrounding soft tissue of the face.

Advantages:
Unlike mirror-based exophthalmometers, this system quantifies the eye/globe relationship in all
three dimensions. Additionally, as it is a non-contact technique, there is no requirement for
intact lateral orbital rims and, thus, this system can be used in cases where there has been rim
alteration due to trauma or surgery. Finally, as this system is based on non-ionizing techniques,
frequent measurements can be performed in an office setting to monitor the progression of
orbital disease and assist in disease management and treatment decision making.

Status of Development/Commercialization:
PARTEQ Innovations, the technology transfer office of Queen’s University, is seeking industrial
partners interested in developing and commercializing this technology.

Contact:
Jason Hendry
Manager, Commercial Development
P: 613. 533. 2342
F: 613. 533. 6853
E: jhendry@parteqinnovations.com