[Anterior segment optical coherence tomography in modern ophthalmic diagnostics]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Tomography techniques in ophthalmology have advanced significantly since the 1990s.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a key non-invasive imaging tool utilizing infrared light.
• Modern spectral-domain and swept-source OCT offer higher resolution and reduced motion sensitivity compared to older time-domain methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the evolving role and diverse applications of OCT in ophthalmology.
• To emphasize OCT's utility in diagnosing both retinal and anterior segment eye pathologies.
• To showcase advancements in OCT technology and its impact on clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing spectral-domain and swept-source OCT for high-resolution, quantitative imaging.
• Applying OCT for cross-sectional imaging from the ocular surface to the lens.
• Integrating OCT into operating microscopes for real-time surgical guidance.

Main Results:

• OCT provides micrometer-resolution imaging and quantitative data for ocular structures.
• It is effective for diagnosing corneal pathologies, including curvature, refractive power, thickness, and keratoconus screening.
• OCT aids in post-corneal surgery follow-up, glaucoma diagnosis, and intraocular lens calculation.

Conclusions:

• OCT is a versatile and accurate diagnostic tool for a wide range of ophthalmic conditions.
• Advanced OCT applications include intraoperative assistance and non-invasive anterior segment angiography.
• The continuous development of OCT enhances its value in clinical ophthalmology and patient management.