Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: To establish an inexpensive system to analyze internet transmitted stereoscopic images of the optic nerve head (ONH) for collaborative research or remote glaucoma diagnosis. Methods: We used a computer assisted system based on a personal computer (Intel Pentium III, 550 MHz, 32 MB graphic board), wireless stereoscopic shutter glasses (Liquid Crystal Revelator, Elsa, Germany) and a 19" monitor (Eizo, refresh rate 120 Hz). Stereoscopic obtained images were digitized using a SprintScan 35 Plus Film Scanner (Polaroid, MA), stored in JPEG file format and edited using the software 3D PIX (Nuvision, OR). The use of a new Java 2.0 beta Applet (Andreas Petersik, Hamburg) allows different stereoscopic visualization forms. Results: Flicker free stereoscopic visualization of the ONH can be achieved with the above described systems. Optic disc, neuroretinal rim shape, excavation depth and size of the ONH can be judged much better as in conventional two dimensional images. Conclusion: The presented system provides high quality and low cost transmission of stereoscopic images of ONH from glaucoma patients via inter- or intranet. The possibility to extend the system to other research institutes engaged in teletransmission and in the judgement of visual 3D information is discussed.
Keywords: 430 imaging/image analysis: clinical • 498 optic disc