The Bellecour Vision Clinic equips itself with the UBM ABSolu Quantel Medical by Lumibird to continue offering its patients the latest technologies
Always seeking the most relevant technological innovations to improve patient care and surgical visual outcomes, we now offer our patients the benefit of the UBM ABSolu Quantel Medical, which enhances our range of pre- and post-operative examinations.
UBM (Ultrasound BioMicroscopy) is a high-frequency ultrasound imaging technique (50 MHz) that allows detailed cross-sectional exploration of the eye’s anterior segment. Unlike conventional optical examinations such as OCT, UBM provides excellent resolution and effective penetration through opaque tissues, enabling complete visualization of the eye with an exceptionally high degree of detail.
What are the indications for UBM?
-Evaluation of the iridocorneal angle in suspected cases of narrow-angle or acute glaucoma.
-Preoperative assessment in refractive surgery, particularly for patients not eligible for laser surgery.
-Analysis of intraocular implant positioning (phakic or pseudophakic).
-Study of iridociliary tumors or anterior segment trauma.
-Understanding the anatomical mechanism of angle closure (plateau iris, polycystic iris, anterior iris insertion, etc.).
Why is UBM essential for ICL implantation?
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) are phakic implants inserted between the iris and the crystalline lens, in the posterior chamber of the eye. They correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism when laser surgery is contraindicated or not the best solution. Their success relies on extremely precise preoperative anatomical measurements, particularly to avoid complications such as lens contact or pupillary block.
UBM plays a crucial role at several levels:
-Direct visualization of the ciliary sulcus, where the implant rests: UBM is the only tool that provides reliable imaging of this structure.
-Precise measurement of anterior chamber depth and sulcus-to-sulcus diameter, both essential for choosing the correct implant size.
-Assessment of anatomy behind the iris, inaccessible to OCT, to avoid intraoperative or postoperative surprises.
-Verification of the exact implant position after surgery.
In summary, UBM is the only technique capable of providing a reliable map of the implantation site, thereby ensuring the safety, accuracy, and effectiveness of ICL Staar implantation—particularly in patients with complex ocular anatomy or contraindications to laser surgery (thin cornea, high myopia, dry eye, etc.).
Examination process and comfort
-Painless, performed lying down with local anesthetic eye drops.
-The probe does not come into direct contact with the eye thanks to a specific contact gel.
-Duration: 10 to 15 minutes.
-Slightly blurred vision may persist for a few minutes after the exam, without the need for assistance.
-No need for pupil dilation or special preparation.
UBM is therefore a key examination for any patient considering a phakic implant such as ICL, enabling highly precise anatomical analysis essential for a successful procedure and optimal visual results.
The Bellecour Vision Clinic is proud to be among the few specialized refractive surgery centers offering this innovative technology.