Glaucoma Management and the Clinical Utility of Monaco

As the global population ages and the prevalence of glaucoma rises, the need for effective and accessible management also becomes more critical. Optometrists are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in the early detection and comprehensive management of this sight-threatening condition. With their specialized training, widespread accessibility and a patient-centered approach, ODs are indispensable in the fight against glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to irreversible vision loss if not properly managed. One of the key components of managing glaucoma is accurate and timely diagnosis, which can be challenging with traditional imaging techniques. However, advancements in technology, such as the Monaco device from Optos, are revolutionizing the way clinicians can assess and manage glaucoma. 

Monaco is the first retinal imaging device that combines optomap single-capture 200° ultra-widefield (UWF™) imaging with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). This integration of imaging modalities allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of the retina, enabling clinicians to identify macular pathology and detect glaucoma with high accuracy. In fact, combining optomap with SD-OCT increases the identification of macular pathology by 29.4% when compared to fundus imaging alone.[1]

One of the key advantages of the device is its ability to capture optomap color and autofluorescence (af) images, along with posterior pole OCT scans of both eyes, in as little as 90 seconds. This fast and convenient imaging process can significantly improve clinic flow and allow for more efficient patient care.[2] Additionally, newly available in the United States, Monaco now includes a comprehensive reference database (RDB) that follows new best practice guidelines for optic nerve head (ONH) size, allowing for more accurate glaucoma predictions.

Multi-modal imaging with Monaco has been shown to reduce the number of ungradable scans to less than 1% and decrease false positives by 58%.[3] This high level of accuracy is essential for early detection and management of glaucoma, as well as other retinal pathologies such as diabetic retinopathy.

Furthermore, Monaco imaging provides detailed ONH distribution reporting and measurements that correlate well with visual field results and other OCT devices.[4][5] This level of accuracy and correlation can help clinicians make more informed decisions about the diagnosis and management of glaucoma.

Optos delivers a fast, convenient, and accurate tool for clinicians to assess and manage glaucoma. By combining ultra-widefield retinal imaging with SD-OCT, Monaco provides a comprehensive evaluation of the eye that can improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

Clinicians are encouraged to explore the clinical utility of Monaco for their practice and enhance their ability to effectively manage glaucoma and other retinal pathologies.  Read the full clinical summary and more or visit our website to see how optomap can help diagnose, treat and manage your patients.