[A method for recording the network topology of human retinal vessels]

Network analysis of the human retinal vessels must be based on a thorough knowledge of the topology of the network. This derives from the numerical composition of the network's individual components. Using histologic specimens, centrifugal and centripetal ordering methods were compared. It was found necessary to use an ordering system which takes both dichotomous as well as lateral branching into account, and Strahler's centripetal ordering system was found to be suitable. For various representative areas of human retinae it could be shown that the number of segments of each Strahler order forms an inverse geometric sequence which enables the Horton branching quotient RB to be calculated. It is thus possible to predict the number of vessel segments within the individual orders. Although the method ignores detailed vessel morphology, with knowledge of the vessel lengths and diameters determined in the same manner it enables the conductivity and resistance of human retinal vessels to be measured.