Research Projects
- Computerized aided analysis – software development
- Detection of glaucoma progression
- Expanded utility of ocular imaging devices
- Glaucoma detection
- Preclinical model studies
What We Do
More than 4 million Americans have glaucoma, but only 50% know they have it, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. The suspected number of cases worldwide is 65 million.
The Ophthalmic Imaging Research Laboratory specializes in the development and testing of cutting edge ophthalmic imaging devices. These devices can assist in the early detection and diagnosis of glaucoma and retinal diseases.
The ophthalmic imaging devices provide highly detailed images of ocular structures at micron scale. These devices assist also in the quantification of ocular structures. The Laboratory focuses on the use of ophthalmic imaging devices for glaucoma assessment. Micron scale imaging leads to an earlier diagnosis and a higher sensitivity in detecting the progression of the disease.
These techniques can improve the patient’s management of the disease and maintain his/her functional vision.
We are currently researching:
- the development of new ocular imaging devices
- the assessment of new devices
- the development of innovative methods for image processing
- the automated quantification of ocular structures
- the clinical testing of imaging devices.
- the ocular anatomy and the glaucomatous pathophysiological process in pre clinical and human models
We strongly believe in a multidisciplinary approach: ophthalmologists, vision scientists, bioengineers, software developers, statisticians and trainees from numerous disciplines and at various levels in their careers work in our Lab.
The research of the laboratory is predominantly funded by the National Eye Institute and includes collaborative projects with prestigious research groups in leading academic institutes.
Mission Statement
- to improve detection and progression of glaucoma through the use of ocular imaging devices
- to develop ocular imaging devices hardware and software for improved diagnostic performance
- to enhance the understanding of the ocular pathophysiology
- to train future vision scientists leaders in ocular imaging
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the eye's optic nerve. It often results in vision loss and blindness. Glaucoma occurs when the normal fluid pressure inside the eyes slowly rises. However, recent findings now show that glaucoma can occur with normal eye pressure.
Glaucoma can steal sight without warning signs or symptoms. Patients can often protect their eyes against serious vision loss by treating the disease in its early stages.
Contact Information
Gadi Wollstein, MD
Associate Professor of Ophthalmology
Director, Ophthalmic Imaging Research Laboratories
Phone: 412-647-0325
Email: wollsteing@upmc.edu
Department of Ophthalmology
University of Pittsburgh
203 Lothrop Street
Suite 834.1
Pittsburgh, PA 15213