Fourier Domain Optical Coherence Tomography integrated into a slit lamp; a novel technique combining anterior and posterior segment OCT

Purpose Fourier Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (FD-OCT) provides high resolution cross-sectional images of the retina and the anterior segment. It has become an important tool in ophthalmology in the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of important and common diseases. Present OCT imaging systems are stand-alone devices. The aim of this paper is to show the quality of images made with a prototype of a Fourier Domain (FD-) OCT imaging system (SLSCAN-1) integrated into a slit lamp. Methods Different representative pathologies of the posterior and anterior segment were observed with the slit lamp and simultaneously scanned with a prototype of the slit lamp-integrated FD-OCT system. The clinical interpretation of posterior segment images made with the prototype were compared to those obtained with a stand-alone FD-system (3D-OCT-1000 Mark II, Topcon). Results Images made with the slit lamp-integrated FD-OCT were of sufficient quality to allow for a correct interpretation of the observed pathological conditions. Conclusions based on the images of the posterior segment of the prototype were identical to the conclusions based on the images of a stand-alone FD-system (3D-OCT-1000 Mark II, Topcon). In addition to the images of the posterior segment, images could be made of the anterior segment. The OCT system did not interfere with the normal functionality of the slit lamp. Conclusion The slit lamp-integrated FD-OCT system provided high quality images of both the anterior and the posterior segment. Scans made with the slit lamp-integrated FD-OCT system could be of use in clinical practice. Eye (2010) 24, 980-984; doi: 10.1038/eye.2009.269; published online 13 November 2009