Snapshot hyperspectral fundus imaging system using a microlens array

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomedical Optics
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Retinal hyperspectral imaging aids early disease diagnosis by analyzing spectral signatures of biomarkers.
• Conventional systems suffer from long scan times and motion artifacts due to involuntary eye movements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid snapshot hyperspectral fundus camera to mitigate motion artifacts.
• To enable faster and more reliable spectral analysis for retinal disease detection.

Main Methods:

• A novel snapshot hyperspectral fundus camera utilizing a microlens array was designed.
• The system integrates a streamlined optical path compatible with commercial fundus cameras.
• Variable field-of-view (20°, 35°, 50°) and tunable spectral resolution versus light throughput were implemented.

Main Results:

• The snapshot camera significantly reduces acquisition time compared to conventional systems.
• The system effectively minimizes motion artifacts, improving image quality.
• Adaptable spectral resolution and light throughput cater to diverse clinical needs.

Conclusions:

• The developed snapshot hyperspectral fundus camera offers a promising solution for artifact-free retinal imaging.
• This technology advances early disease diagnosis by enabling efficient spectral biomarker quantification.
• The camera's flexibility supports a broad spectrum of ophthalmological diagnostic applications.