Anil Shivaram, M.D., from Claremont Eye Associates in Claremont, California, prepares for a cataract surgery on his iPad.
IBM and ophthalmic products giant Bausch + Lomb are jointly developing what they say will be the first mobile app to help cataract surgeons.
The yet-unnamed app, for iPhone and iPad, is intended to provide decision support — via the IBM Cloud — and assist in the selection of implantable intraocular lenses. This app also will give surgeons electronic access to patient records and other pertinent data on their Apple devices.
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“By combining IBM’s advanced data management capabilities with Apple’s innovative app ecosystem and our clinical expertise, we are working to provide surgeons with a convenient, personalized tool that helps them better manage and access patient profiles digitally, and provide personalized IOL recommendations that fit each individual,” said Andy Chang, senior vice president and general manager for Bausch + Lomb’s U.S. surgical divison. Bausch + Lomb, based in Bridgewater, New Jersey, is a subsidiary of embattled Valeant Pharmaceuticals International.
“Bausch + Lomb has identified a significant need in the ophthalmic community, and the app we created will equip ophthalmologists with the data they need at their fingertips to help them make better, informed decisions for their patients,” added Mahmoud Nagshineh, general manager of IBM’s partnership with Apple.
IBM said that the two companies will start a pilot study of the app late this year.
Photo: Bausch + Lomb