In vivo human choroidal vascular pattern visualization using high-speed swept-source optical coherence tomography at...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomedical Imaging
• Medical Technology

Background:

• The choroid and retina are critical for vision, with their vascular networks susceptible to various diseases.
• Accurate visualization of these vascular structures is essential for diagnosis and monitoring.
• Existing imaging technologies may have limitations in depth penetration and resolution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the capability of high-speed, high-resolution swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) at 1060 nm for imaging retinal and choroidal vasculature.
• To demonstrate enhanced penetration through all choroidal layers with SS-OCT.
• To investigate the vascular pattern, structure, and thickness of the retina and choroid.

Main Methods:

• Development of an ophthalmic SS-OCT system with high A-line rate (57,000/s) and axial resolution (5.9 μm).
• Acquisition of 3D SS-OCT images with wide scanning angles (up to ~70° × 35°).
• Generation of en face images at different depths to visualize vascular networks and measurement of retinal and choroidal thicknesses.

Main Results:

• Delineation of retinal layers, choriocapillaris, Sattler's layer, Haller's layer, and lamina suprachoroid layer in 2D sagittal tomograms.
• Visualization of posterior ciliary artery branches (SPCA, LPCA) and major choroidal vessels using en face imaging over a 2-cm² field of view.
• Creation of retinal and choroidal thickness maps.

Conclusions:

• High-speed, high-resolution SS-OCT at 1060 nm effectively visualizes retinal and choroidal vasculature, including arteries and veins.
• The technology provides enhanced penetration, enabling detailed imaging of choroidal layers.
• This SS-OCT approach offers significant diagnostic potential for monitoring vascular changes in ocular diseases.