The Optovue iVue OCT System from Grafton Optical: The Possibilities of Hand-held OCT Devices in Ophthalmic Practice

摘要

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is an imaging technology which provides a cross-sectional scan or image of the retinal layers (Figure 1). The principle of OCT is based on interferometry and is similar to the technology of ultrasound, except that near infrared light emitting at approximately 820nm is used instead of sound1. A light source is directed into an optical beam-splitter which sends one part of the light into a reference mirror and one part to the retina. When the two light pulses are reflected back they should coincide, causing what is known as interference. This interference is measured by a light-sensitive detector which transforms the information into an OCT scan2. OCT scans of the macula and optic disc are integral to both the diagnosis and managment of many eye conditions, including: age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), diabetes and glaucoma. As the quality and capabilities of OCT technology increase, so does the volume of patients requiring OCT, as more consultants rely on the diagnostic information gained in this fast and efficient procedure.