October 26, 2022
A company behind light-based treatment to help save diabetic patients’ sight has had its technology adopted by the NHS.
PolyPhotonix’s Noctura 400 sleep mask is being used by Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
The mask, pictured above, delivers light therapy to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy – which can cause blindness if left untreated.
Bosses say it has the potential to save the NHS more than £180 million a year if adopted across the entire organisation.
Richard Kirk, chief executive of PolyPhotonix, which is based at NETPark, in Sedgefield, County Durham, said: “Treating diabetic retinopathy patients with the Noctura 400 represents a cost-effective alternative to existing treatments for the NHS.
“At a time when our healthcare budgets are already stretched, adding the sleep mask to existing care pathways makes sound financial sense in helping healthcare services recover from the pandemic and freeing up hospital appointments for those in greater need of emergency care.
“Most importantly, it prevents problems before they arise and enables doctors to improve patient care.”
Ulrich Meyer-Bothling, consultant ophthalmic surgeon at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, added: “This is great news for patients and the NHS alike.
“It is non-invasive, doesn’t require patients to attend the hospital as frequently and represents a gentler approach to treating or even preventing diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema.
“I’m proud most of the patients I have treated with the mask have shown stabilisation and improvement in their diabetic eye disease.”
October 26, 2022
- Business & Economy