3D surface imaging in medicine: a review of working principles and implications for imaging the unsedated child

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging
• Pediatric Eye Care

Background:

• Optical surface imaging is crucial for assessing the eye's anterior segment.
• Previous reviews have not comprehensively covered techniques for unsedated pediatric patients.
• Understanding imaging methods is vital for accurate diagnosis and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of optical surface imaging methods used in the last 30 years.
• To focus specifically on techniques applicable to unsedated children.
• To equip readers with knowledge to interpret data and select appropriate imaging approaches.

Main Methods:

• Review of published literature on optical surface imaging over three decades.
• Categorization and analysis of various imaging modalities.
• Emphasis on techniques suitable for pediatric populations, minimizing the need for sedation.

Main Results:

• Identification and description of key optical surface imaging techniques.
• Discussion of the evolution and advancements in these methods.
• Highlighting the challenges and successes in imaging unsedated children.

Conclusions:

• A thorough understanding of optical surface imaging methods is essential for researchers and clinicians.
• The review facilitates informed decisions regarding imaging technique selection for pediatric eye research.
• Advances in imaging continue to improve the assessment of the ocular surface in children.