Objective Perimetry

The AccuMap objective perimeter was developed as a new test for glaucoma at the Save Sight Institute. Unlike all previous techniques which rely on the patient's subjective responses to visual targets, Objective Perimetry records an objective response by recording the tiny electrical signals generated in the brain, called visual evoked potentials, when the patient views a stimulus on a computer screen.

The system received FDA approval in late 2003 and was launched in the USA at the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The technology is being expanded beyond the diagnosis of glaucoma to encompass retinal and neurological applications.

Triamcinolone

The Save Sight Institute developed the steroid molecule, triamcinolone, as the first ever therapy for retinal disease. This was a landmark research development dating from our basic research in the 1980s. At that time SSI was the first research group to recognise the presence of the immune system in the human retina.

The role of the immune system in the developing retinal blood supply and its up regulation in aged macular degeneration (AMD) has been quoted as ushering in a new era of medical management for human retinal disease. SSI continues to investigate the use of steroid injections into the eye for the treatment of a range of blinding retinal diseases. In 2005 the international company Alcon purchased the IP for $120 million.

Cataract

Cataract (clouding of the lens) is the major cause of blindness in the world. At present the only treatment available is surgery.

The Institute has found evidence that nuclear cataracts result from the development, during middle age, of a barrier in the lens which limits key molecular exchanges. The Institute is now investigating new drugs/molecular therapies to prevent or slow the development of this barrier and also to improve the outcome of current surgery.

Vision of Childhood

In Australia, childhood blindness is mainly due to developmental problems. In developing countries, it is largely due to nutritional and infectious causes.

The Institute pioneered improvements in microsurgical techniques that have resulted in the prevention of blindness and restoration of sight in children. Intra-ocular lens implantation (IOL), for example, following cataract surgery in children as young as one year is now routine. Institute studies in molecular and clinical genetics are also shedding significant light on congenital cataract and glaucoma. The Institute's joint research with Royal Prince Alfred Hospital's Newborn and Premature Babies Unit has resulted in a marked improvement in the vision of premature babies.

Colour Vision

Normal colour vision is crucial in many occupations. Changes or deficiencies in colour vision can also indicate onset of various medical conditions or the effects of exposure to neurotoxic and other chemicals.

To aid the detection of colour vision deficiencies, the Institute has developed novel digitised versions of several conventional colour vision tests. The digital versions have a number of distinct advantages over conventional physical tests, including colour stability and accuracy, as well as speed of plotting and analysis.

Corneal Transplantation

Corneal transplantation is the most effective form of treatment for corneal blindness but is dependent on the donation of corneas. In NSW, there are more people on the transplantation waiting list than there are available corneas.

To address this issue, the Institute has developed an improved fluid medium for storing and preserving corneas for longer periods, thus making more donated corneas available for transplantation. The technology will be a significant advance in the quest to cure corneal blindness throughout the world.

Artificial Eye

The consequences of some eye diseases, especially tumours, may be the loss of an eye. Materials currently used to replace eyes may be associated with problems including the potential for extrusion, infection, reduced motility and loss of cosmesis over time.

The Institute has developed a novel porous bioceramic with improved biointegration and mechanical properties which promises better function and cosmesis over existing implants.