Daewoong to distribute Arc's AI-based ophthalmic diagnostic solutions

Daewoong Pharmaceutical has signed an agreement with Arc, a medical device company, to distribute the latter’s WISKY, an AI-based ophthalmic diagnostic solution, and OPTiNA Genesis, a fundus camera, in the domestic market.

Under the accord, Daewoong will handle the domestic distribution of WISKY and OPTiNA, while Arc will be responsible for manufacturing, production, and technical support.

For patients with chronic diseases, including diabetes and hypertension, fundus examinations are recommended to prevent complications.

However, the inconvenience of additional visits to ophthalmology clinics and limited access in some regions have made less than half of patients receive recommended examinations.

The two companies expect the introduction of WISKY to facilitate primary screenings for three major blinding diseases at hospitals, enabling early detection of these conditions.

WISKY is an AI-powered diagnostic platform that detects diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and glaucoma, the three leading causes of blindness, and provides clinical insights. By integrating images taken with a fundus camera into the WISKY program, the AI algorithm analyzes and diagnoses the diseases.

The platform offers a rapid diagnosis within three to five seconds with a single click, assisting medical professionals in making quick and effective decisions.

It also highlights different pathological areas in distinct colors, enabling clear and detailed explanations to patients.

OPTiNA is a specialized camera designed for fundus photography, capturing high-resolution images of the retina, choroid, and optic nerve, essential for diagnosing and managing various ophthalmic diseases.

Weighing about 2.7 kilograms, it is portable and can automatically capture images with a single button press. Notably, it can perform retinal imaging without pupil-dilating agents, enhancing patient convenience.

"Combining the advanced technology of Arc's OPTiNA and WISKY with Daewoong's strong marketing capabilities will provide many patients with more accurate and rapid diagnoses, ultimately facilitating early diagnosis and effective management of ophthalmic diseases in Korea," Daewoong Pharmaceutical CEO Lee Chang-jae said. "Daewoong will continue introducing innovative medical solutions to contribute to public health."