Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: SLO provide a high–resolution alternative to fundus photography, while the OCT system provide cross sectional imaging of the vitreo–retinal and retinal area. We developed a new imaging device, which combines simultaneously the imaging of both of these instruments in a single instrument. We investigated pre– and post–operative retinal findings for patients with ERM using the new 3–dimentional OCT/SLO system. Methods: Twenty eyes with epiretinal membrane (ERM) were included. Unlike a conventional SLO, the combined device can operate in a so–called "transversal" and yields OCT images originating at the same axes and plane as the retina. These transversal OCT images are thin cross sections of retinal and subretinal structures at a chosen depth. The system also scans laterally along a line to the retina to produce cross–sectional longitudinal OCT images as the Humphrey’s system. The patients were examined before and after the surgery using this system. Results: This new system precisely demonstrated the ERM and the pathologies in all 20 eyes with ERM. The depth and the expanse of folds in the retina and the macular edema were clearly detected in all cases. Retinal folds were still existed even 3 weeks after the removal of ERM. The expanse of folds was clearly observed in the transversal OCT images preoperatively, which disappeared after 8 weeks following the surgeries. Conclusions: This new technology for the first time enables us to observe precise vitreoretinal structures in 3–dimentional fashion in patients with ERM before and after the surgery. This system would be useful to follow–up the patients after the surgery for ERM.
Keywords: imaging methods (CT, FA, ICG, MRI, OCT, RTA, SLO, ultrasound) • imaging/image analysis: clinical • retina