Emerging Applications of Intraoperative Optical Coherence Tomography in Corneal Surgery: A Narrative Review

Intraoperative OCT (iOCT) is an innovative imaging modality that provides ophthalmic surgeons with real-time cross-sectional views of the surgical field. Recent advances in OCT technology, such as higher acquisition scanning rates, enable real-time video visualization. iOCT systems are widely used in both vitreoretinal and anterior segment surgeries. In corneal surgeries, iOCT imaging aims to optimize efficacy and safety by improving depth perception and enhancing visualization in cases of opaque optical media. iOCT is a valuable tool not only for experienced corneal surgeons, but also for training novice surgeons. This review summarizes the emerging applications of iOCT in corneal surgery, particularly in technically demanding lamellar keratoplasty procedures, as well as in various other corneal diseases and complications that require surgical intervention.