The Development, Commercialization, and Impact of Optical Coherence Tomography

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Ophthalmic Imaging
• Medical Technology Development

Background:

• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has become a standard of care in ophthalmology.
• OCT provides real-time structural and functional information for disease diagnosis, progression evaluation, and therapy assessment.
• OCT applications extend beyond ophthalmology to other clinical specialties, fundamental research, and manufacturing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the history and evolution of OCT from a nonscientific, historical perspective.
• To describe the research and development process of OCT, emphasizing multidisciplinary collaboration.
• To introduce the concept of an "ecosystem" essential for OCT's clinical acceptance and impact.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) development.
• Analysis of the evolution from femtosecond optics to clinical application.
• Examination of the role of engineering, entrepreneurship, and corporate development.

Main Results:

• OCT originated in femtosecond optics and utilized optical communications technologies.
• Advanced engineering was critical for early OCT prototypes and clinical feasibility.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration, government funding, and industry partnerships were vital for OCT's global healthcare impact.

Conclusions:

• The development of OCT required a synergistic "ecosystem" involving research, funding, collaboration, clinical studies, and industry.
• The long and challenging journey of OCT development can inspire early career professionals in science, engineering, and medicine.
• This review provides insights into the successful translation of advanced optical technology into widespread clinical practice.