Koray Kavakli

A new holographic augmented-reality device gives pre-op cataract patients a glimpse of their post-operative best-corrected vision, according to its creators. 

Developed by Professor Hakan Ürey and Koray Kavakli, Koç University in Istanbul, Turkey, the head-mounted simulator was tested on 10 cataracts patients during preoperative ocular assessment. The simulator detects noncataractous areas on the crystalline lens by digitally manipulating a light beam that tracks the pupil and simulates natural vision for the wearer.  

Kavakli and Prof Ürey said the simulated vision helps patients choose the post-op IOLs that suit them best. “All patients had better visual acuity when tested in our holographic simulator compared to the conventional eye examination,” said Kavakli. He said the simulator could be also applied to corneal diseases such as keratoconus, which cannot be corrected by lenses.