Steep-Angle OCT Zonule Imaging Under the Iris
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging technologies, such as ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems, struggle to provide high-resolution, non-invasive imaging of the zonules of the eye, which are obscured by the iris, limiting pre-operative evaluation and surgical planning in cataract surgery.
Innovation Solution
A noncontact lens adapter is used with existing ophthalmic imaging systems to redirect imaging light beams at steep angles, allowing for high-resolution imaging of the zonules without touching the eye, utilizing reflective optics to compensate for refractive index mismatches and enable detailed visualization of zonule fibers and ciliary body structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional imaging methods (Humphrey visual field analyzer, Octopus 3000) are used, then glaucoma detection is possible, but the methods are time-consuming and require patient cooperation with complex procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/optical imaging systems with optical coherence tomography (OCT) technology that uses low-coherence light interference to directly image the optic nerve head and retinal layers, eliminating the need for complex mechanical scanning systems and patient cooperation procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates optical copies (reflectivity maps) of the optic nerve head and retinal structures by detecting backscattered light intensity, allowing non-contact, rapid imaging without requiring physical interaction or complex patient procedures
2Measurement precision
If detailed imaging of optic nerve head structures is performed, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but the imaging process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional visual field testing to three-dimensional optical coherence tomography imaging of the optic nerve head, providing cross-sectional views of retinal layers and optic nerve structures that reveal detailed anatomical information in a single rapid scan
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the imaging parameter from functional visual field measurement to structural optical reflectivity measurement, allowing direct visualization of optic nerve head cupping, retinal layer thickness, and other structural parameters that indicate glaucoma with high precision
3Ease of operation
If non-contact imaging is implemented, then patient comfort and safety are improved, but imaging precision and detail may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces contact-based imaging mechanisms with non-contact optical coherence tomography, using low-coherence light to penetrate and image ocular structures through the cornea and aqueous humor without physical contact, maintaining both patient comfort and high imaging precision
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides unprecedented detail in imaging zonular anatomy and pathology, facilitating pre-operative assessment and surgical planning, while maintaining patient comfort and compatibility with existing imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
A low-coherence light source and an interferometer are used to image the optic nerve head in cross-section at the level of the lamina cribrosa
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4A~4D
AI summary
A system, method, or device for imaging the anterior segment of an eye includes a contactless adapter/lens that may be attached to an existing ophthalmic imaging system to redirect the imaging system's light beam to traverse the pupil of the eye at a steep angle. In particular, the steep angle is determined to permit the ophthalmic imaging system to image zonules under the iris, and which would typically be blocked by the iris and not accessible for imaging.