Handheld device allows swept-source OCT-A imaging in awake neonates

A non-invasive swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography prototype holds promise for enabling infant screening for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The handheld device is being developed at the University of Washington, Seattle, USA. It features an on-probe display and pupil-finding live video that makes image acquisition easier for the operator, and it can be used without an eyelid speculum or sedation, making the examination much easier for the infant. At the annual meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology in Vancouver, Canada, researchers reported on the initial clinical experience using the novel device in 19 imaging sessions performed in eight premature infants. The prototype generated good quality images of the foveal and peripapillary microvasculature without significant motion artifact in 58% and 74% of sessions, respectively. Each volume was acquired with approximately 30º field of view. “We are now working to improve the device, including modifications that will increase the field of view,” said Ruikang Wang, PhD, Professor of Bioengineering and Ophthalmology, University of Washington.

Tags: ARVO 2019, Optical coherence tomography angiography, retinopathy of prematurity