Ophthalmic optical coherence tomography with multiple resolutions

Abstract

To provide ophthalmic optical coherence tomography with multiple resolutions.SOLUTION: Systems 100 and methods are disclosed for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography with multiple resolutions. In some embodiments, a system comprises a light source 102, an output lens 198, and a set of optical components 110 between the light source and the output lens, the set of optical components comprising an afocal zoom telescope 116. The set of optical components is adapted to provide imaging both at a first field of view with a first resolution and at a second field of view with a second resolution, where the first field of view is wider than the second field of view and the second resolution is higher than the first resolution. A method of performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography with multiple resolutions may be performed using one or more of the systems described herein.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A-1B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods related to ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. [Background technology]

[0002] Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging is a widely used imaging technique for ophthalmic image acquisition. OCT is a non-invasive diagnostic modality that can provide in vivo cross-sectional subsurface imaging across tissue layers. OCT is used for posterior segment imaging, e.g., to examine the retina, and anterior segment imaging, e.g., to examine the lens and / or cornea. OCT can assist ophthalmologists in diagnosing ocular conditions, modeling the eye, and providing pre-surgical information. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] There is a need for improved ophthalmic OCT systems and methods. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography.

[0005] In some embodiments, the system includes a light source, an output lens, and a set of optical elements between the light source and the output lens, the set of optical elements including an afocal zoom telescope. The set of optical elements is adapted to provide imaging in both a first field of view having a first resolution and a second field of view having a second resolution, the first field of view being wider than the second field of view and the second resolution being higher than the first resolution. The set of optical elements is adapted to provide imaging in at least the first field of view by passing light emitted from the light source through the afocal zoom telescope.

[0006] In some embodiments, the set of optical elements may have a first configuration that provides a first resolution for a first field of view and a second configuration that provides a second resolution for a second field of view.

[0007] In some embodiments, the afocal zoom telescope includes a zoom lens, the position of which is movable between a first position and a second position, and when the zoom lens is in the first position, the set of optical elements assumes a first configuration, and when the zoom lens is in the second position, the set of optical elements assumes a second configuration.

[0008] In some embodiments, the afocal zoom telescope is movable between a first position and a second position, and when the afocal zoom telescope is in the first position, the set of optical elements assumes a first configuration, and when the afocal zoom telescope is in the second position, the set of optical elements assumes a second configuration. In some embodiments, the system is configured such that when the afocal zoom telescope is in the first position, light emitted from the light source passes through the afocal zoom telescope, and when the afocal zoom telescope is in the second position, the system is configured such that light emitted from the light source does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope. The afocal zoom telescope may be movable by rotation and / or translation of the afocal zoom telescope.

[0009] In some embodiments, the system is configured such that when the set of optical elements is in a first configuration, light emitted from the light source travels along a first optical path, and when the set of optical elements is in a second configuration, light emitted from the light source travels along a second optical path, where the first optical path may be a path that passes through the afocal zoom telescope, and the second optical path may be a path that does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope or that passes through a different afocal zoom telescope.

[0010] In some embodiments, the set of optical elements may include a first mirror at an input end of the set of optical elements, the first mirror being movable between a first position and a second position, the system being configured such that when the first mirror is in the first position, light emitted from the light source travels along a first optical path, and when the first mirror is in the second position, the system is configured such that light emitted from the light source travels along a second optical path.

[0011] In some embodiments, the optical element set may further include a polarizing optical element at the input end of the optical element set, a polarization rotator in the second optical path, and a polarizing beam splitter at the output end of the optical element set.

[0012] In some embodiments, the set of optical elements may further include a second mirror at the output end of the set of optical elements.

[0013] In some embodiments, the set of optical elements may further include a beam splitter at the output end of the set of optical elements.

[0014] In some embodiments, the set of optical elements may further include a beam splitter, a first shutter, and a second shutter at an input end of the set of optical elements, wherein when the set of optical elements is in the first configuration, the second shutter prevents light emitted from the light source from traveling through the second optical path, and when the set of optical elements is in the second configuration, the first shutter prevents light emitted from the light source from traveling through the first optical path.

[0015] In some embodiments, the optical element set may further include a polarization rotator and a polarizing beam splitter at the input end of the optical element set, and a polarizing beam splitter at the output end of the optical element set.

[0016] In some embodiments, the set of optical elements may further include an input polarizing beam splitter at the input end of the set of optical elements, the input polarizing beam splitter adapted to split the incident light so that a first polarized light travels along a first optical path that passes through the afocal zoom telescope and a second polarized light travels along a second optical path that does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope. The first polarization may be one of TE or TM polarization, and the second polarization may be the other of TE or TM polarization. The set of optical elements may further include an output polarizing beam splitter at the output end of the set of optical elements. The system may include an interferometer having a detector adapted to select each of the first polarization and the second polarization.

[0017] In some embodiments, a method for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography includes emitting light from a light source, passing the light from the light source through a set of optical elements with a first field of view having a first resolution, and passing the light from the light source through a set of optical elements with a second field of view having a second resolution. The first field of view may be wider than the second field of view, and the second resolution may be higher than the first resolution. Passing the light from the light source through the set of optical elements with the first field of view and the first resolution may include passing the light emitted from the light source through an afocal zoom telescope.

[0018] In some embodiments, a method for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography may be performed using one or more of the systems described herein.

[0019] The accompanying drawings illustrate several implementations of the systems and methods disclosed herein and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1A-1B] 1A-1B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. [Figure 2A-2B]2A-2B illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. [Figure 3A-3B] 3A-3B illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. [Figure 4A-4B] 4A-4B illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. [Figure 5A-5B] 5A-5B illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. [Figures 6A-6B] 6A-6B illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. [Figures 7A-7B] 7A-7B illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The accompanying drawings can be better understood by reference to the following detailed description.

[0022] For purposes of understanding the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to implementations illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe these implementations, with the understanding that no limitation on the scope of the present disclosure is intended. All modifications and further improvements to the systems, apparatus, meters, and methods described below, and any further applications of the principles of the present disclosure, are fully contemplated as would normally occur to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. In particular, features, components, and / or steps described with respect to one implementation may be combined with features, components, and / or steps described with respect to other implementations of the present disclosure. For purposes of brevity, in some instances, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0023] 1A-9 are exemplary embodiments of a system for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography. The system directs light into an eye 10 to perform OCT of the tissue being examined. OCT can be used for posterior segment imaging, for example, to examine the retina, and anterior segment imaging, for example, to examine the lens and / or cornea.

[0024] 1A-9, the system is adapted to provide imaging at multiple fields of view, each having a different resolution. Each of these illustrated systems is adapted to provide imaging at a first relatively large or wide field of view with a first relatively low resolution, and a second relatively small or narrow field of view with a second relatively high resolution.

[0025] 1A and 1B show an exemplary embodiment of a system 100 for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic OCT. The system 100 includes a light source 102, an output lens 198, and a set of optical elements 110 between the light source 102 and the output lens 198. The system 100 may include a collimator lens 122, a two-dimensional (2D) scanner 124, and a beam expander 126, as shown. The light source 102 may be a suitable optical fiber. The set of optical elements 110 includes an afocal zoom telescope 116. The set of optical elements 110 is adapted to provide imaging at both a first large field of view with a first low resolution, as shown in FIG. 1A, and a second smaller field of view with a second high resolution, as shown in FIG. 1B.

[0026] 1A and 1B, the set of optical elements 110 has a first configuration that provides a first resolution for a first field of view, as shown in FIG. 1A, and a second configuration that provides a second resolution for a second field of view, as shown in FIG. 1B. The afocal zoom telescope 116 includes a zoom lens 118, the position of which is movable between a first position and a second position. When the zoom lens 118 is in the first position, the set of optical elements 110 assumes the first configuration, and when the zoom lens 118 is in the second position, the set of optical elements 110 assumes the second configuration.

[0027] The zoom lens 118 may be under electronic control, allowing the operator to quickly and efficiently transition between the first and second configurations. Movement of the zoom lens 118 occurs without the need to reposition the system 100 relative to the patient.

[0028] 2A and 2B show another exemplary embodiment of a system 200 for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic OCT. The system 200 includes a light source 202, an output lens 298, and a set of optical elements 210 between the light source 202 and the output lens 298. The system 200 may include a collimator lens 222, a two-dimensional (2D) scanner 224, and a beam expander 226, as shown. The light source 202 may be a suitable optical fiber. The set of optical elements 210 includes an afocal zoom telescope 216. The set of optical elements 210 is adapted to provide imaging at both a first large field of view with a first low resolution, as shown in FIG. 2A, and a second smaller field of view with a second high resolution, as shown in FIG. 2B.

[0029] In the example of Figures 2A and 2B, the set of optical elements 210 has a first configuration providing a first resolution for a first field of view, as shown in Figure 2A, and a second configuration providing a second resolution for a second field of view, as shown in Figure 2B. In this exemplary embodiment, the afocal zoom telescope 216 is movable between a first position, as shown in Figure 2A, and a second position, as shown in Figure 2B. When the afocal zoom telescope 216 is in the first position, as shown in Figure 2A, the set of optical elements 210 assumes the first configuration. When the afocal zoom telescope 216 is in the second position, as shown in Figure 2B, the set of optical elements 210 assumes the second configuration. When the afocal zoom telescope 216 is in the first position, as shown in Figure 2A, the system 200 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 202 passes through the afocal zoom telescope 216 to provide a relatively large field of view. When the afocal zoom telescope 216 is in a second position, as shown in FIG. 2B, the system 200 is configured to provide relatively high resolution without the light emitted from the light source 202 passing through the afocal zoom telescope 216.

[0030] The afocal zoom telescope 216 may be movable between the first and second positions in any suitable manner. For example, the afocal zoom telescope 216 may be movable between the first and second positions by rotating the afocal zoom telescope 216 and / or translating the afocal zoom telescope 216. The afocal zoom telescope 216 may be under electronic control, allowing an operator to quickly and efficiently transition between the first and second configurations. The movement of the afocal zoom telescope 216 occurs without having to reposition the system 200 relative to the patient.

[0031] 3A and 3B show another exemplary embodiment of a system 300 for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic OCT. The system 300 includes a light source 302, an output lens 398, and a set of optical elements 310 between the light source 302 and the output lens 398. The system 300 may include a collimator lens 322, a two-dimensional (2D) scanner 324, and a beam expander 326, as shown. The light source 302 may be a suitable optical fiber. The set of optical elements 310 includes an afocal zoom telescope 316. The set of optical elements 310 is adapted to provide imaging at both a first large field of view with a first low resolution, as shown in FIG. 3A, and a second smaller field of view with a second high resolution, as shown in FIG. 3B.

[0032] 3A and 3B, the set of optical elements 310 has a first configuration providing a first resolution for a first field of view, as shown in FIG. 3A, and a second configuration providing a second resolution for a second field of view, as shown in FIG. 3B. When the set of optical elements 310 is in the first configuration, as shown in FIG. 3A, the system 300 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 302 travels along a first optical path 370. When the set of optical elements 310 is in the second configuration, as shown in FIG. 3B, the system 300 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 302 travels along a second optical path 380. In this illustrated example, the first optical path 370 passes through the afocal zoom telescope 316, and the second optical path 380 does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope 316.

[0033] In alternative embodiments of the examples provided herein, the second optical path passes through an afocal zoom telescope and the first optical path does not pass through an afocal zoom telescope. In other alternative embodiments of the examples provided herein, the first optical path and the second optical path pass through one or more afocal zoom telescopes.

[0034] 3A and 3B, the set of optical elements 310 further includes a first mirror 330 at an input end 312 of the set of optical elements 310. The first mirror 330 is movable between a first position, as shown in FIG. 3A, and a second position, as shown in FIG. 3B. When the first mirror 330 is in the first position, as shown in FIG. 3A, the system 300 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 302 travels along a first optical path 370. When the first mirror 330 is in the second position, as shown in FIG. 3B, the system 300 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 302 travels along a second optical path 380.

[0035] 3A and 3B , the first position of the first mirror 330 is such that the first mirror 330 is out of the path of the light emitted from the light source 302, allowing the light emitted from the light source 302 to travel along a first optical path 370, and the second position of the first mirror 330 is such that the first mirror 330 is positioned on the path of the light emitted from the light source 302, redirecting the light emitted from the light source 302 to travel along a second optical path 380. In alternative embodiments, the first position of the first mirror may be such that the first mirror is positioned on the path of the light emitted from the light source, thereby redirecting the light emitted from the light source, and the second position of the first mirror may be such that the first mirror is out of the path of the light emitted from the light source, thereby not redirecting the light emitted from the light source.

[0036] 3A and 3B , within the path of light redirected by first mirror 330, system 300 further includes additional mirrors 332, 334 that redirect the light back to a beam splitter 350 located at output end 314 of set of optical elements 310. Beam splitter 350 allows light from first optical path 370 to pass toward output lens 398, and beam splitter 350 reflects light from second optical path 380 toward output lens 398. Thus, beam splitter 350 is located in both first optical path 370 and second optical path 380.

[0037] System 300 further includes adaptive optics 360 in the path of the light redirected by first mirror 330. Adaptive optics 360 compensates for the redirection of the beam path.

[0038] The first mirror 330 may be under electronic control and may be quickly and efficiently transitioned between the first and second configurations by an operator. Movement of the first mirror 330 occurs without the need to reposition the system 300 relative to the patient.

[0039] 4A and 4B show another exemplary embodiment of a system 400 for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic OCT. The system 400 includes a light source 402, an output lens 498, and a set of optical elements 410 between the light source 402 and the output lens 498. The system 400 may include a collimator lens 422, a two-dimensional (2D) scanner 424, and a beam expander 426, as shown. The light source 402 may be a suitable optical fiber. The set of optical elements 410 includes an afocal zoom telescope 416. The set of optical elements 410 is adapted to provide imaging at both a first large field of view with a first low resolution, as shown in FIG. 4A, and a second smaller field of view with a second high resolution, as shown in FIG. 4B.

[0040] 4A and 4B, the set of optical elements 410 has a first configuration providing a first resolution for a first field of view, as shown in FIG. 4A, and a second configuration providing a second resolution for a second field of view, as shown in FIG. 4B. When the set of optical elements 410 is in the first configuration, as shown in FIG. 4A, the system 400 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 402 travels along a first optical path 470. When the set of optical elements 410 is in the second configuration, as shown in FIG. 4B, the system 400 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 402 travels along a second optical path 480. In this illustrated example, the first optical path 470 passes through the afocal zoom telescope 416, and the second optical path 480 does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope 416. As mentioned above, alternative configurations are possible, such as a configuration in which the second optical path passes through an afocal zoom telescope and the first optical path does not pass through an afocal zoom telescope, or a configuration in which both the first and second optical paths pass through one or more afocal zoom telescopes.

[0041] 4A and 4B, the set of optical elements 410 further includes a first mirror 430 at an input end 412 of the set of optical elements 410. The first mirror 430 is movable between a first position, as shown in FIG. 4A, and a second position, as shown in FIG. 4B. When the first mirror 430 is in the first position, as shown in FIG. 4A, the system 400 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 402 travels along a first optical path 470. When the first mirror 430 is in the second position, as shown in FIG. 4B, the system 400 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 402 travels along a second optical path 480.

[0042] 4A and 4B , the first position of the first mirror 430 is such that the first mirror 430 is out of the path of the light emitted from the light source 402, allowing the light emitted from the light source 402 to travel along a first optical path 470, and the second position of the first mirror 430 is such that the first mirror 430 is located on the path of the light emitted from the light source 402, redirecting the light emitted from the light source 402 to travel along a second optical path 480. In alternative embodiments, the first position of the first mirror may be a position in which the first mirror is located on the path of the light emitted from the light source, thereby redirecting the light emitted from the light source, and the second position of the first mirror may be a position in which the first mirror is out of the path of the light emitted from the light source, thereby not redirecting the light emitted from the light source.

[0043] 4A and 4B, in the path of the light redirected by the first mirror 430, the system 400 further includes additional mirrors 432, 434 that redirect the light back to a beam splitter 450 located at the output end 414 of the set of optical elements 410. The system 400 further includes a adaptive optics element 460 in the path of the light redirected by the first mirror 430. The adaptive optics element 460 compensates for the redirection of the beam path.

[0044] 4A and 4B , the set of optical elements 410 further includes a polarizing optical element 428 at an input end 412 of the set of optical elements 410 before the first mirror 430. The polarizing optical element 428 is adapted to polarize (actively or passively) the light beam before the first mirror 430. The set of optical elements 410 includes a polarization rotator, such as a half-wave plate 482 in a second optical path 480 at an output end 414 of the set of optical elements 410 before the beam splitter 450. The beam splitter 450 is a polarizing beam splitter that directs light of a first polarization through the first optical path 470 and reflects light of a second polarization through the second optical path 480. In this manner, the total power throughput can be optimized.

[0045] The first mirror 430 may be under electronic control and may be quickly and efficiently transitioned between the first and second configurations by an operator. The movement of the first mirror 430 occurs without the need to reposition the system 400 relative to the patient.

[0046] 5A and 5B show another exemplary embodiment of a system 500 for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic OCT. System 500 is similar to system 300 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B , except that system 500 includes a second mirror 550 at the output end 514 of the set of optical elements rather than a beam splitter 350. System 500 includes a light source 502, an output lens 598, and a set of optical elements 510 between light source 502 and output lens 598. System 500 may include a collimator lens 522, a two-dimensional (2D) scanner 524, and a beam expander 526, as shown. Light source 502 may be a suitable optical fiber. The set of optical elements 510 includes an afocal zoom telescope 516. The set of optical elements 510 is adapted to provide imaging at both a first large field of view with a first low resolution, as shown in FIG. 5A, and a second small field of view with a second high resolution, as shown in FIG. 5B.

[0047] 5A and 5B, the set of optical elements 510 has a first configuration providing a first resolution for a first field of view, as shown in FIG. 5A, and a second configuration providing a second resolution for a second field of view, as shown in FIG. 5B. When the set of optical elements 510 is in the first configuration, as shown in FIG. 5A, the system 500 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 502 travels along a first optical path 570. When the set of optical elements 510 is in the second configuration, as shown in FIG. 5B, the system 500 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 502 travels along a second optical path 580. In this illustrated example, the first optical path 570 passes through the afocal zoom telescope 516, and the second optical path 580 does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope 516. As mentioned above, alternative configurations are possible, such as a configuration in which the second optical path passes through an afocal zoom telescope and the first optical path does not pass through an afocal zoom telescope, or a configuration in which both the first and second optical paths pass through one or more afocal zoom telescopes.

[0048] 5A and 5B, the set of optical elements 510 further includes a first mirror 530 at an input end 512 of the set of optical elements 510. The first mirror 530 is movable between a first position, as shown in FIG. 5A, and a second position, as shown in FIG. 5B. When the first mirror 530 is in the first position, as shown in FIG. 5A, the system 500 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 502 travels along a first optical path 570. When the first mirror 530 is in the second position, as shown in FIG. 5B, the system 500 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 502 travels along a second optical path 580.

[0049] 5A and 5B, in the path of the light redirected by the first mirror 530, the system 500 further includes additional mirrors 532, 534 that redirect the light back to a second mirror 550 located at the output end 514 of the set of optical elements 510. The system 500 further includes a adaptive optics element 560 in the path of the light redirected by the first mirror 530. The adaptive optics element 560 compensates for the redirection of the beam path.

[0050] Similar to the first mirror 530, the second mirror 550 is movable between a first position, as shown in Figure 5A, and a second position, as shown in Figure 5B. When the first mirror 530 is in the first position, as shown in Figure 5A, the second mirror 550 is also in the first position, and the system 500 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 502 travels along a first optical path 570. When the first mirror 530 is in the second position, as shown in Figure 5B, the second mirror 550 is also in the second position, and the system 500 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 502 travels along a second optical path 580.

[0051] In the example shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the first position of the first mirror 530 and the second mirror 550 is a position where the first mirror 530 and the second mirror 550 are out of the path of the light emitted from the light source 502, allowing the light emitted from the light source 502 to travel along a first optical path 570, and the second position of the first mirror 530 and the second mirror 550 is a position where the first mirror 530 and the second mirror 550 are positioned on the path of the light emitted from the light source 502, redirecting the light emitted from the light source 502 to travel along a second optical path 580. In alternative embodiments, the first position of the first and second mirrors can be a position in which the first and second mirrors are positioned in the path of the light emitted from the light source and thus redirect the light emitted from the light source, and the second position of the first and second mirrors can be a position in which the first and second mirrors are out of the path of the light emitted from the light source and therefore do not redirect the light emitted from the light source. In alternative embodiments, in the first position, the first mirror can be in the light path while the second mirror is out of the light path, and in the second position, the first mirror can be out of the light path while the second mirror is in the light path.

[0052] The first mirror 530 and the second mirror 550 may be under electronic control, allowing an operator to quickly and efficiently transition between the first and second configurations. Movement of the first mirror 530 and the second mirror 550 occurs without the need to reposition the system 500 relative to the patient.

[0053] 6A and 6B show another exemplary embodiment of a system 600 for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic OCT. The system 600 includes a light source 602, an output lens 698, and a set of optical elements 610 between the light source 602 and the output lens 698. The system 600 may include a collimator lens 622, a two-dimensional (2D) scanner 624, and a beam expander 626, as shown. The light source 602 may be a suitable optical fiber. The set of optical elements 610 includes an afocal zoom telescope 616. The set of optical elements 610 is adapted to provide imaging at both a first large field of view with a first low resolution, as shown in FIG. 6A, and a second smaller field of view with a second high resolution, as shown in FIG. 6B.

[0054] 6A and 6B, the set of optical elements 610 has a first configuration providing a first resolution for a first field of view, as shown in FIG. 6A, and a second configuration providing a second resolution for a second field of view, as shown in FIG. 6B. When the set of optical elements 610 is in the first configuration, as shown in FIG. 6A, the system 600 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 602 travels along a first optical path 670. When the set of optical elements 610 is in the second configuration, as shown in FIG. 6B, the system 600 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 602 travels along a second optical path 680. In this illustrated example, the first optical path 670 passes through the afocal zoom telescope 616, and the second optical path 680 does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope 616. As mentioned above, alternative configurations are possible, such as a configuration in which the second optical path passes through an afocal zoom telescope and the first optical path does not pass through an afocal zoom telescope, or a configuration in which both the first and second optical paths pass through one or more afocal zoom telescopes.

[0055] 6A and 6B, the set of optical elements 610 further includes a first beam splitter 630 at an input end 612 of the set of optical elements 610. The first beam splitter 630 splits the incoming beam so that light emitted from the light source 602 travels in the direction of a first optical path 670 and in the direction of a second optical path 680. The set of optical elements 610 further includes a second beam splitter 650 at an output end 614 of the set of optical elements 610. The second beam splitter 650 is disposed in both the first optical path 670 and the second optical path 680.

[0056] The set of optical elements 610 further includes a first shutter 636 and a second shutter 638 at the input end 612 of the set of optical elements 610, positioned after the first beam splitter 630. The first shutter 636 is selectively operable to allow or block light from traveling through a first optical path 670. The second shutter 638 is selectively operable to allow or block light from traveling through a second optical path 680. When the set of optical elements 610 is in the first configuration, the second shutter 638 blocks light emitted from the light source 602 from traveling through the second optical path 680, and light emitted from the light source 602 travels through the first optical path 670. When the set of optical elements 610 is in the second configuration, the first shutter 636 blocks light emitted from the light source 602 from traveling through the first optical path, and light emitted from the light source 602 travels through the second optical path 680.

[0057] 6A and 6B, in the path of the light reflected by the first beam splitter 630, the system 600 further includes mirrors 632, 634 that redirect the light back to a second beam splitter 650 located at the output end 614 of the set of optical elements 610. The system 600 further includes a adaptive optics element 660 in the path of the light reflected by the first beam splitter 630. The adaptive optics element 660 compensates for the redirection of the beam path.

[0058] The first shutter 636 and the second shutter 638 may be under electronic control, allowing an operator to quickly and efficiently transition between the first and second configurations. Movement of the first shutter 636 and the second shutter 638 occurs without the need to reposition the system 600 relative to the patient.

[0059] 7A and 7B show another exemplary embodiment of a system 700 for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic OCT. The system 700 includes a light source 702, an output lens 798, and a set of optical elements 710 between the light source 702 and the output lens 798. The system 700 may include a collimator lens 722, a two-dimensional (2D) scanner 724, and a beam expander 726, as shown. The light source 702 may be a suitable optical fiber. The set of optical elements 710 includes an afocal zoom telescope 716. The set of optical elements 710 is adapted to provide imaging at both a first large field of view with a first low resolution, as shown in FIG. 7A, and a second smaller field of view with a second high resolution, as shown in FIG. 7B.

[0060] 7A and 7B, the set of optical elements 710 has a first configuration providing a first resolution for a first field of view, as shown in FIG. 7A, and a second configuration providing a second resolution for a second field of view, as shown in FIG. 7B. When the set of optical elements 710 is in the first configuration, as shown in FIG. 7A, the system 700 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 702 travels along a first optical path 770. When the set of optical elements 710 is in the second configuration, as shown in FIG. 7B, the system 700 is configured so that light emitted from the light source 702 travels along a second optical path 780. In this illustrated example, the first optical path 770 passes through the afocal zoom telescope 716, and the second optical path 780 does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope 716. As mentioned above, alternative configurations are possible, such as a configuration in which the second optical path passes through an afocal zoom telescope and the first optical path does not pass through an afocal zoom telescope, or a configuration in which both the first and second optical paths pass through one or more afocal zoom telescopes.

[0061] In the example of Figures 7A and 7B, the set of optical elements 710 further includes a polarizing optical element 736, such as a half-wave plate 738, and a polarization rotator at the input end 712 of the set of optical elements 710. The polarizing optical element 736 is adapted to polarize (actively or passively) the light beam prior to the polarization rotator 738 and the polarizing beam splitter 730. As an alternative to the polarizing optical element 736, a light source that emits polarized light may be used. The polarization rotator 738 is adapted to move between two positions: one in which the polarization of the incident light is rotated, and one in which the polarization of the incident light is not rotated (or is rotated by a different amount). The polarizing beam splitter 730 directs the first polarized light to pass through a first optical path 770 and reflects the second polarized light to pass through a second optical path 780. The set of optical elements 710 further includes a second polarizing beam splitter 750 at the output end 714 of the set of optical elements 710. A second polarizing beam splitter 750 is placed in both the first optical path 770 and the second optical path 780. In this way, the total power throughput can be optimized.

[0062] 7A and 7B, in the path of the light reflected by the first beam splitter 730, the system 700 further includes mirrors 732, 734 that redirect the light back to a second beam splitter 750 located at the output end 714 of the set of optical elements 710. The system 700 further includes a adaptive optics element 760 in the path of the light reflected by the first beam splitter 730. The adaptive optics element 760 compensates for the redirection of the beam path.

[0063] The polarization rotator 738 can be moved between positions in any suitable manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 7A , from a first position where the polarization of the incident light is not rotated and is therefore allowed to pass through the first optical path 770 by the first beam splitter 730, and from a second position where the polarization of the incident light is rotated and is therefore reflected by the first beam splitter 730 and passes through the second optical path 780, as shown in FIG. 7B . The polarization rotator 738 can be rotated by any suitable angle. Alternatively, the polarization rotator 738 can be moved translationally between a position on the optical path and a position off the optical path.

[0064] The polarization rotator 738 may be under electronic control, allowing the operator to quickly and efficiently transition between the first and second configurations. Movement of the polarization rotator 738 occurs without the need to reposition the system 700 relative to the patient.

[0065] 8 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a system 800 for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic OCT. The system 800 includes a light source 802, an output lens 898, and a set of optical elements 810 between the light source 802 and the output lens 898. The system 800 may include a collimator lens 822, a two-dimensional (2D) scanner 824, and a beam expander 826 as shown. The light source 802 may be a suitable optical fiber. The set of optical elements 810 includes an afocal zoom telescope 816. The set of optical elements 810 is adapted to provide imaging at both a first large field of view with a first low resolution and a second smaller field of view with a second high resolution.

[0066] In the example of FIG. 8 , the set of optical elements 810 includes a polarizer 828 and an input polarizing beam splitter 830 at the input end 812 of the set of optical elements 810. The polarizer 828 actively or passively polarizes light into multiple polarizations, allowing for both TE and TM polarization, for example. The input polarizing beam splitter 830 is adapted to split the incident light so that the first polarized light travels along a first optical path 870 that passes through the afocal zoom telescope 816 and the second polarized light travels along a second optical path 880 that does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope. The first polarization can be one of TE or TM polarization, and the second polarization can be the other of TE or TM polarization. The set of optical elements 810 further includes an output polarizing beam splitter 850 at the output end 814 of the set of optical elements 810. The output polarizing beam splitter 850 is disposed in both the first optical path 870 and the second optical path 880. As shown in FIG. 8, system 800 further includes an interferometer 890 having a detector adapted to select each of the first and second polarizations.

[0067] 8, system 800 further includes mirrors 832, 834 in the path of the light reflected by first beam splitter 830 that redirect the light back to second beam splitter 850 located at output end 814 of set of optical elements 810. System 800 further includes adaptive optics element 860 in the path of the light reflected by first beam splitter 830. Adaptive optics element 860 compensates for the redirection of the beam path.

[0068] 8, system 800 can simultaneously perform OCT scans of both a large field of view with low resolution and a small field of view with high resolution. The detectors of interferometer 890 select distinctly different polarizations to handle the different fields of view and resolutions.

[0069] FIG. 9 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a system 900 for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic OCT. System 900 is similar to system 800, except that system 900 does not include a polarizer 828 and instead includes two light sources 902, 904. Light source 902 emits light with a first polarization (e.g., TE or TM polarization), and light source 904 emits light with a second polarization (e.g., the other of TE or TM polarization). System 900 further includes an output lens 998 and a set of optical elements 910 between light sources 902, 904 and output lens 998. System 900 may include a collimator lens 922, a two-dimensional (2D) scanner 924, and a beam expander 926, as shown. Light sources 902, 904 may be suitable optical fibers. A beam splitter 906 may be used to direct the light from light sources 902, 904 onto a common path. The set of optical elements 910 includes an afocal zoom telescope 916. The set of optical elements 910 is adapted to provide imaging at both a first large field of view with a first low resolution and a second smaller field of view with a second high resolution.

[0070] Similar to the example of FIG. 8 , in the example of FIG. 9 , the set of optical elements 910 includes an input polarizing beam splitter 930 at an input end 912 of the set of optical elements 910. The input polarizing beam splitter 930 is adapted to split the incident light so that a first polarized light travels along a first optical path 970 that passes through the afocal zoom telescope 916 and a second polarized light travels along a second optical path 980 that does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope. The first polarization may be one of TE or TM polarization, and the second polarization may be the other of TE or TM polarization. The set of optical elements 910 further includes an output polarizing beam splitter 950 at an output end 914 of the set of optical elements 910. The output polarizing beam splitter 950 is disposed in both the first optical path 970 and the second optical path 980. As shown in FIG. 9 , the system 900 further includes an interferometer 990 having a detector adapted to select each of the first and second polarizations.

[0071] 8, in FIG. 9, system 900 further includes mirrors 932, 934 in the path of the light reflected by first beam splitter 930 that redirect the light back to second beam splitter 950 located at output end 914 of set of optical elements 910. System 900 also includes a adaptive optics element 960 in the path of the light reflected by first beam splitter 930. Adaptive optics element 960 compensates for the redirection of the beam path.

[0072] 9 allows simultaneous OCT scans of both a large field of view with low resolution and a small field of view with high resolution. The detectors of the interferometer 990 select distinctly different polarizations to handle the different fields of view and resolutions.

[0073] A method for performing ophthalmic OCT can be implemented using one or more of the systems described herein. The method includes emitting light from one or more light sources, passing the light from the light sources through a set of optical elements with a first field of view having a first resolution, and passing the light from the light sources through a set of optical elements with a second field of view having a second resolution. The first field of view is wider than the second field of view, and the second resolution is higher than the first resolution. Passing the light from the light sources through the set of optical elements with the first field of view and the first resolution includes passing the light emitted from the light sources through an afocal zoom telescope.

[0074] Those skilled in the art will recognize from the present disclosure that the present disclosure enables a system that provides ophthalmic OCT at multiple resolutions, with at least one resolution being a low resolution with a large field of view and at least one resolution being a high resolution with a small field of view. As an example, the low resolution may have a lateral resolution of about 20 μm and a field of view of about ±10 mm at the corneal plane of the eye, and the high resolution may have a lateral resolution of about 5 μm and a field of view of about ±4 mm at the corneal plane of the eye. The system may have a high scanning speed and a relatively small beam diameter so as not to be unduly affected by eye movement.

[0075] Those skilled in the art will recognize from the present disclosure that it enables systems that provide ophthalmic OCT at multiple resolutions with rapid transitions between resolutions. In some embodiments, elements are rapidly moved between configurations. Such movement can be electronically controlled and automated. In other embodiments, the system captures both resolutions simultaneously without the need to move elements. Associated optics can be integrated into the optics head to maintain cleanliness and alignment and prevent damage from handling. In some embodiments, the systems described herein can also maintain a relatively long working distance, e.g., approximately 100 mm, for patient comfort. In some embodiments, the systems described herein can eliminate the need for external elements that are manually inserted and close to the patient's eye.

[0076] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the implementations encompassed by the present disclosure are not limited to the specific exemplary implementations described above. In this regard, while exemplary implementations have been shown and described, a wide range of variations, modifications, and alternatives are contemplated in the foregoing disclosure. It is to be understood that such variations may be made to the foregoing disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the present disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography, comprising: A light source and An output lens; a set of optical elements between the light source and the output lens, the set of optical elements including an afocal zoom telescope; the set of optical elements is adapted to provide imaging in both a first field of view having a first resolution and a second field of view having a second resolution; the first field of view is wider than the second field of view and the second resolution is higher than the first resolution; The system, wherein the set of optical elements is adapted to provide imaging in at least the first field of view by passing light emitted from the light source through the afocal zoom telescope.

2. 2. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 1, wherein the set of optical elements has a first configuration that provides the first resolution for the first field of view and a second configuration that provides the second resolution for the second field of view.

3. 3. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 2, wherein the afocal zoom telescope includes a zoom lens, the position of the zoom lens being movable between a first position and a second position, and when the zoom lens is in the first position, the set of optical elements assumes a first configuration, and when the zoom lens is in the second position, the set of optical elements assumes a second configuration.

4. 3. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 2, wherein the afocal zoom telescope is movable between a first position and a second position, and when the afocal zoom telescope is in the first position, the set of optical elements assumes a first configuration, and when the afocal zoom telescope is in the second position, the set of optical elements assumes a second configuration.

5. 5. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 4, wherein the system is configured such that light emitted from the light source passes through the afocal zoom telescope when the afocal zoom telescope is in a first position, and the system is configured such that light emitted from the light source does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope when the afocal zoom telescope is in a second position.

6. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 4 , wherein the afocal zoom telescope is movable between a first position and a second position by rotation of the afocal zoom telescope.

7. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 4 , wherein the afocal zoom telescope is movable between a first position and a second position by translation of the afocal zoom telescope.

8. 3. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 2, wherein the system is configured such that when the set of optical elements is in a first configuration, light emitted from the light source travels along a first optical path, and when the set of optical elements is in a second configuration, the system is configured such that light emitted from the light source travels along a second optical path.

9. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 8 , wherein the first optical path passes through the afocal zoom telescope and the second optical path does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope.

10. 10. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 9, wherein the set of optical elements further comprises a first mirror at an input end of the set of optical elements, the first mirror being movable between a first position and a second position, the system being configured such that when the first mirror is in the first position, light emitted from the light source travels along the first optical path, and when the first mirror is in the second position, the system being configured such that light emitted from the light source travels along the second optical path.

11. 11. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 10, wherein the set of optical elements further comprises a polarizing optical element at an input end of the set of optical elements, a polarization rotator in the second optical path, and a polarizing beam splitter at an output end of the set of optical elements.

12. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 10 , wherein the set of optical elements further comprises a second mirror at an output end of the set of optical elements.

13. 10. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 9, wherein the set of optical elements further includes a beam splitter at an output end of the set of optical elements, the beam splitter being disposed in both the first optical path and the second optical path.

14. 10. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 9, wherein the set of optical elements further includes a beam splitter, a first shutter, and a second shutter at an input end of the set of optical elements, wherein when the set of optical elements is in a first configuration, the second shutter prevents light emitted from the light source from traveling through the second optical path, and when the set of optical elements is in a second configuration, the first shutter prevents light emitted from the light source from traveling through the first optical path.

15. 10. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 9, wherein the set of optical elements further includes a polarization rotator and a polarizing beam splitter at an input end of the set of optical elements, and a polarizing beam splitter at an output end of the set of optical elements.

16. 2. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 1, wherein the set of optical elements further comprises an input polarizing beam splitter at an input end of the set of optical elements, the input polarizing beam splitter adapted to split the incident light so that a first polarized light travels along a first optical path that passes through the afocal zoom telescope and a second polarized light travels along a second optical path that does not pass through the afocal zoom telescope.

17. 17. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 16, wherein the first polarization is one of TE or TM polarization and the second polarization is the other of TE or TM polarization.

18. 17. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 16, wherein the set of optical elements further includes an output polarizing beam splitter at an output end of the set of optical elements, the output polarizing beam splitter being disposed in both the first optical path and the second optical path.

19. 17. The system for performing ophthalmic optical coherence tomography of claim 16, wherein the system further includes an interferometer having a detector adapted to select each of the first polarization and the second polarization.

20. 1. A method for performing multi-resolution ophthalmic optical coherence tomography, comprising: emitting light from a light source; passing light from the light source through a set of optical elements in a first field of view having a first resolution; and passing light from the light source through a set of optical elements of a second field of view having a second resolution; the first field of view is wider than the second field of view and the second resolution is higher than the first resolution; 10. The method of claim 1, wherein passing light from the light source through the set of optical elements for the first field of view having the first resolution comprises passing light emitted from the light source through an afocal zoom telescope.

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