The Plusoptix paediatric mobile autorefractor is a portable device that quickly measures a child’s glasses prescription and pupil reactions without the need for dilating eye drops.

Currently, most children referred to the eye department at Basingstoke Hospital require dilating drops to fully assess their vision. These drops can sting, blur vision for several hours, and cause light sensitivity for up to 24 hours. For many children — particularly those with autism, developmental delay or sensory sensitivities — this can be distressing and overwhelming.

Using the Plusoptix device, clinicians can perform a rapid, reliable vision assessment on undilated pupils. If results are within normal limits and orthoptic screening is clear, the child can be discharged without needing a dilated examination or consultant appointment. This reduces unnecessary appointments, shortens waiting lists, and spares many children from an uncomfortable experience.

The device is especially valuable for children with additional needs. Children and young people with learning disabilities or autism are 28 times more likely to have serious sight problems than other children, and many find traditional examinations traumatic. The Plusoptix allows measurements to be taken from one metre away in under a second, even in less cooperative patients.

The device is also particularly beneficial for children with Down syndrome. Between 60–80% of children with Down syndrome experience eye conditions, and many also have associated cardiac conditions. Dilating drops can carry additional risks for these patients, and some parents understandably prefer to avoid repeated dilation. The Plusoptix enables safe, undilated assessment, providing reassurance for families while maintaining high clinical standards.

Approximately 286 children per year could benefit directly, with wider impact across Basingstoke and Winchester through reduced waiting times.

Key Benefits

• No Routine Dilating Drops – Reduces discomfort, blurred vision and light sensitivity
  • More Child-Friendly – Ideal for children with autism, learning disabilities, Down syndrome or sensory sensitivities
  • Faster Assessments – Measurements are taken in under a second, even in uncooperative patients
  • Reduces Waiting Lists – Fewer orthoptic and consultant appointments required.
  • Frees Specialist Time – Allows ophthalmologists to focus on higher-priority cases
  • Portable & Flexible – Battery-operated and can be used in different work places
  • Unique Red Reflex Testing – Enables documented imaging not possible with standard ophthalmoscopy. Pictures can be taken by a nurse and analysed unhurriedly.