A New Approach to Glaucoma Detection

Glaucoma remains one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, largely due to its asymptomatic nature in early stages. While current diagnostics rely heavily on structural imaging, they often detect damage only after significant vision loss has occurred. This study aims to explore the potential of retinal oxygen saturation (StO2) as a biomarker that may contribute to improved diagnostic precision and treatment monitoring.

“By studying how retinal oxygen levels relate to standard glaucoma tests like intraocular pressure, OCT imaging, and visual field exams, we hope to better understand the disease’s progression,” said Dr. Paul Harasymowycz, Medical Director at Bellevue Ophthalmology Clinic and Principal Investigator. “This research could pave the way for more precise risk stratification and personalized treatment strategies.”

Bringing Innovation to Glaucoma Care

Zilia’s technology non-invasively measures oxygen saturation in the retina, offering real-time insights into eye health. Research suggests that changes in oxygen levels may occur before visible structural damage, making retinal oximetry a promising new tool in glaucoma management. With a growing focus on metabolism-based biomarkers in ophthalmology, retinal oximetry could play a key role in shaping the future of glaucoma care.

“This study is part of Zilia’s mission to revolutionize eye care,” said Patrick Sauvageau, CEO and Co-founder of Zilia. “By giving clinicians a more complete picture of glaucoma progression, we aim to help patients receive earlier, more effective treatment.”

About Zilia

Zilia is a health technology company developing a groundbreaking platform to non-invasively measure biomarkers in the eye, with an initial focus on ocular oximetry. By integrating advanced photonics and artificial intelligence, Zilia’s first-of-kind technology is intended to leverage the eye’s optical properties and its direct connections to the vascular system and the brain, capturing critical information on ocular and overall health. Its first device, the Zilia Ocular, has recently been approved by Health Canada.

About Bellevue Ophthalmology Clinic

Founded in 2002 by Dr. Paul Harasymowycz, Bellevue Ophthalmology Clinics are a cornerstone of advanced eye care and research in Quebec. With seven locations across the province, the clinics specialize in glaucoma treatment, cataract surgeries, and refractive vision correction. The Montreal Glaucoma Institute, established in 2004, further underscores Bellevue’s commitment to advancing ophthalmological research, offering fellowship programs and conducting cutting-edge studies to improve patient outcomes.

For more information, visit https://cliniquebellevue.com/en/home/.

About Dr. Paul Harasymowycz

Dr. Paul Harasymowycz is the Medical Director of the Bellevue Ophthalmology Clinics and the Montreal Glaucoma Institute, an Associate Professor at the University of Montreal, and an Adjunct Clinical Professor at McGill University. A leader in glaucoma care and research for over 20 years, he has published extensively in national and international journals, with a focus on glaucoma screening, diagnostic imaging technologies, and innovative surgical treatments.