Intraoperative optical coherence tomography in ophthalmology: Technologies and applications

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) provides real-time, depth-resolved visualization during ophthalmic surgery.
• Early iOCT systems disrupted workflow; microscope-integrated systems now allow concurrent imaging.
• Advancements include faster imaging for 4D visualization and instrument tracking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution and clinical utility of intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) in ophthalmic surgery.
• To highlight how iOCT augments decision-making, surgical precision, and the development of new techniques.
• To discuss the impact of iOCT on surgical performance and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of technological advancements in iOCT systems for ophthalmic applications.
• Analysis of iOCT integration into surgical microscopes and visualization methods.
• Summary of clinical applications and demonstrated utility in various ophthalmic procedures.

Main Results:

• Microscope-integrated iOCT systems overcome workflow limitations of earlier devices.
• Heads-up displays enhance iOCT visualization ergonomics and surgeon focus.
• iOCT has shown utility in diverse procedures like glaucoma surgery, cataract extraction, and retinal repair.

Conclusions:

• iOCT significantly enhances ophthalmic surgical capabilities through real-time visualization.
• Technological integration, including speed and tracking, is crucial for iOCT's advancement.
• iOCT holds substantial potential to improve surgical performance and patient outcomes in ophthalmology.