Visualisation and measurement methods using transversal OCT images of the eye fundus

Presented here are methods of visualisation of the retina, specifically the optic nerve, based on transversal OCT imaging and on the operation of a standalone dual channel OCT transversal/confocal system purpose built for the eye. We also demonstrate that enhanced measurement capabilities of parameters in the fundus are possible using these two channels. This is made possible owing to the unique guidance capability of the confocal channel along with the information it provides about the transversal eye movements. A large number of transversal OCT images are collected from the eye. Then, by software, longitudinal (B-scan) or transversal cuts (C-scan) may be made, post-examination. on the stack of transversal images. The software inferred B-scans are shown to have a similar level of resolution to the hardware generated images after movement errors are corrected. We hope that the system equipped with this 3D software processing could reduce the irradiation time required to collect the necessary data from the eye. We show that 3D visualisation of transversal OCT images along with the simultaneous confocal imaging allows easier alignment of the patient eye than is possible with longitudinal OCT imaging alone. We also demonstrate that by this method of transversal imaging, direct comparison may he made between quantitative SLO acquired measurements made on the eye fundus and OCT measurements. For the first time. measurements of volumes and areas in the optic nerve area are demonstrated using transversal OCT imaging, similar to procedures utilised by scanning laser ophthalmoscope users.