Abstract: An electronic SLO/OCT ophthalmoscope is equipped with a femtosecond (fs) laser for intra- or preretinal therapeutic use in the posterior segment of the eye. In one application the retina photoreceptor mosaic or Bruch's membrane is disrupted in such pattern that minimizes loss of visual functioning but reduces metabolic load of the outer retina. Using a beam splitter, one embodiment combines the SLO/OCT scanning beams with the therapeutic fs beam and an aiming beam. The therapeutic channel uses an independent x/y positioner and micro-deflector. Because the duty cycle is appropriate, a second embodiment can use the SLO/OCT scanners to also simultaneously scan a modulated therapeutic laser beam. A biometric OCT probe can be integrated in both configurations for focusing purpose. A method is disclosed to represent focus relevant tilting of the retina in the posterior pole.

Abstract: An electronic SLO/OCT ophthalmoscope is equipped with a femtosecond (fs) laser for intra- or preretinal therapeutic use in the posterior segment of the eye. In one application the retina photoreceptor mosaic or Bruch's membrane is disrupted in such pattern that minimizes loss of visual functioning but reduces metabolic load of the outer retina. Using a beam splitter, one embodiment combines the SLO/OCT scanning beams with the therapeutic fs beam and an aiming beam. The therapeutic channel uses an independent x/y positioner and micro-deflector. Because the duty cycle is appropriate, a second embodiment can use the SLO/OCT scanners to also simultaneously scan a modulated therapeutic laser beam. A biometric OCT probe can be integrated in both configurations for focusing purpose. Another embodiment can selectively and systematically disrupt or ablate the vitreous body of an eye in a predetermined (programmed) 3-D pattern that minimizes the risk of inadvertently damaging the retina or anterior segment of the eye.

Abstract: An electronic SLO/OCT ophthalmoscope is equipped with a femtosecond (fs) laser for intra- or preretinal therapeutic use in the posterior segment of the eye. In one application the retina photoreceptor mosaic or Bruch's membrane is disrupted in such pattern that minimizes loss of visual functioning but reduces metabolic load of the outer retina. Using a beam splitter, one embodiment combines the SLO/OCT scanning beams with the therapeutic fs beam and an aiming beam. The therapeutic channel uses an independent x/y positioner and micro-deflector. Because the duty cycle is appropriate, a second embodiment can use the SLO/OCT scanners to also simultaneously scan a modulated therapeutic laser beam. A biometric OCT probe can be integrated in both configurations for focusing purpose. A method is disclosed to represent focus relevant tilting of the retina in the posterior pole.

Abstract: An electronic ophthalmoscope combining scanning laser (SLO) and optical coherence (OCT) technologies is further equipped with a pulsed laser source in the femtosecond (fs) range. The goal is primarily to selectively disrupt the photoreceptor mosaic of the retina or Bruch's membrane in a pattern that minimizes loss of visual functioning, and to reduce thereby the metabolic load of the outer retina. Using a beam splitter, one embodiment combines the SLO scanning beams with the therapeutic laser beam and aiming beam. The therapeutic channel uses an independent x/y positioner and micro-deflector. Because the duty cycle is appropriate, a second embodiment can use the SLO scanners to also scan a modulated therapeutic laser beam. A biometric OCT probe, helpful in focusing, can be integrated in both configurations. A method is also disclosed to represent the tilting of the retina at a specified location.

Abstract: An electronic ophthalmoscope combining scanning laser (SLO) and optical coherence (OCT) technologies is further equipped with a pulsed laser source in the femtosecond (fs) range. The goal is primarily to selectively disrupt the photoreceptor mosaic of the retina or Bruch's membrane in a pattern that minimizes loss of visual functioning, and to reduce thereby the metabolic load of the outer retina. Using a beam splitter, one embodiment combines the SLO scanning beams with the therapeutic laser beam and aiming beam. The therapeutic channel uses an independent x/y positioner and micro-deflector. Because the duty cycle is appropriate, a second embodiment can use the SLO scanners to also scan a modulated therapeutic laser beam. A biometric OCT probe, helpful in focusing, can be integrated in both configurations. A method is also disclosed to represent the tilting of the retina at a specified location.

Abstract: A number of additional embodiments and optical constructions of a relaxed confocal catadioptric scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO) are disclosed. They improve the functionality of microperimetry (MP), and the integration of the existing instrument with the capabilities of high speed Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT/SS-OCT). The improvements pertain to enhanced acousto-optic modulation with regard to rise-time and combination of wavelengths, enhanced control of illuminating beam characteristics and separation of illuminating and returned light within the SLO, enhanced electronic control and options for the galvanometer and polygon scanners, additional use of liquid crystal spatial light modulation, and the modalities under which Fourier domain OCT can be integrated within the SLO.

Abstract: A number of additional embodiments and optical constructions of a relaxed confocal catadioptric scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO) are disclosed. They improve the functionality of microperimetry (MP), and the integration of the existing instrument with the capabilities of high speed Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT/SS-OCT). The improvements pertain to enhanced acousto-optic modulation with regard to rise-time and combination of wavelengths, enhanced control of illuminating beam characteristics and separation of illuminating and returned light within the SLO, enhanced electronic control and options for the galvanometer and polygon scanners, additional use of liquid crystal spatial light modulation, and the modalities under which Fourier domain OCT can be integrated within the SLO.

Abstract: A number of additional embodiments and optical constructions of a relaxed confocal catadioptric scanning laser opthalmoscope (SLO) are disclosed. They improve the functionality of microperimetry (MP), and the integration of the existing instrument with the capabilities of high speed spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The improvements pertain to enhanced acousto-optic modulation with regard to rise-time and combination of wavelengths, enhanced control of illuminating beam characteristics and separation of illuminating and returned light within the SLO, enhanced electronic control and options for the galvanometer—polygon combination, additional use of a liquid crystal spatial light modulation, and the modalities under which SD-OCT can be integrated within the SLO.

Abstract: A combination of a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope and external laser sources is used for microphotocoagulation purposes. An opto-mechanical linkage device and beamsplitter is used to align the pivot point of the Maxwellian view of the scanning laser ophthalmoscope with the pivot point of non-scanning external laser beams. The same pivot point is necessary to minimize wavefront aberrations and to enable precise focussing of a therapeutic laser beam on the retina. An AOM and/or two-dimensional AOD can be inserted in the pathway of the Gaussian therapeutic beam to control intensity and spatial pattern of small and short-duration pulses. The location of the external laser beam on the retina is determined with the help of two synchronized detectors and image processing. One detector is used to localize moving fiducial landmarks of the retina. A second detector is used to locate on the retina the external laser aiming beam. Two different confocal apertures are used.

Abstract: A combination of a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope and external laser sources is used for microphotocoagulation purposes. An opto-mechanical linkage device and beamsplitter is used to align the pivot point of the Maxwellian view of the scanning laser ophthalmoscope with the pivot point of non-scanning external laser beams. The same pivot point is necessary to minimize wavefront aberrations and to enable precise focussing of a therapeutic laser beam on the retina. An AOM and/or two-dimensional AOD can be inserted in the pathway of the Gaussian therapeutic beam to control intensity and spatial pattern of small and short-duration pulses. The location of the external laser beam on the retina is determined with the help of two synchronized detectors and image processing. One detector is used to localize moving fiducial landmarks of the retina. A second detector is used to locate on the retina the external laser aiming beam. Two different confocal apertures are used.

Abstract: A combination of a scanning laser ophthalmoscope and external laser sources (52) is used for microphotocoagulation and photodynamic therapy, two examples of selective therapeutic laser. A linkage device incorporating a beamsplitter (56) and collimator-telescope (60) is adjusted to align the pivot point (16) of the scanning lasers (38, 40) and external laser source (52). A similar pivot point minimizes wavefront aberrations, enables precise focusing and registration of the therapeutic laser beam (52) on the retina without the risk of vignetting. One confocal detection pathway of the scanning laser ophthalmoscope images the retina. A second and synchronized detection pathway with a different barrier filter (48) is needed to draw the position and extent of the therapeutic laser spot on the retinal image, as an overlay (64). Advanced spatial modulation increases the selectivity of the therapeutic laser.

Abstract: Maxwellian view and modulation control options for the scanning laser ophthalmoscope allow knowing, maintaining and systematically varying the entrance location of the Maxwellian view used for imaging or functional testing of a particular retinal test location. The scanning laser ophthalmoscope simultaneously images for subsequent digital image processing the anterior and posterior segment of the eye by using a second Newtonian imaging device or by repositioning the entrance location of the Maxwellian view in such way that vignetting of the anatomical pupil occurs. In the second method, the fixation target is systematically moved within the visible border of the anatomical pupil in order to use another entrance location of the Maxwellian view for a given retinal test location.

Abstract: A wavefront aberration measuring device and method is based on the principles of phase contrast interference. A particular application is the two-dimensional representation of the complex optical aberrations of the complete eye optics. This device consists of an illuminating optical part, to project an image of an annular light source on the retina of the eye. This projected image becomes a secondary light source on the retina that transilluminates in reverse the eye optics. Because of imperfections in the eye optics, some phase distortions will be added to the reflected light. In the analyzing part of the device, this reflected light is optically transformed with the help of a phase plate. The resulting interference pattern is visualized with the observational part of the device and further digitally processed in order to display the optical aberrations without the need for an extensive polynomial analysis. An optional fixation device can be added to control the direction of gaze of the eye.

Abstract: A combination of a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope and external laser sources is used for microphotocoagulation or the measurement of wavefront aberrations across the pupil of the eye. An opto-mechanical linkage device allows independent positioning of the pivot point of the Maxwellian view of the scanning laser ophthalmoscope and the pivot point of non-scanning external laser beams. The same pivot point is necessary to minimize wavefront aberrations and to enable precise focussing of a therapeutic laser beam on the retina. The pivot point of an external diagnostic laser beam is systematically moved across the anatomical pupil when wavefront aberrations of the eye optics are to be measured. The retinal location of the external laser beam is determined with two synchronized detectors and digital image processing techniques. One detector is used to localize moving fiducial landmarks of the retina.

Abstract: A combination of scanning laser ophthalmoscope and therapeutic laser source expands the range of clinical applications of the conventional scanning laser ophthalmoscope, being capable of simultaneous imaging, microperimetry and the delivery of therapeutic laser applications to the retina in a preferred non-contact mode. The combination, including a therapeutic laser source, optic-mechanical Maxwellian view coupling device allowing a similar Maxwellian view entrance location in the eye for both the scanning laser ophthalmoscope and therapeutic laser source, and real-time electronic registration of the therapeutic beam location, permits precise positioning and dosage of the retinal applications. Additional safety mechanisms include a shutter activation based on digital image processing techniques.

Abstract: A combination of a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope and external laser sources is used for microphotocoagulation purposes. An opto-mechanical linkage device and beamsplitter is used to align the pivot point of the Maxwellian view of the scanning laser ophthalmoscope with the pivot point of non-scanning external laser beams. The same pivot point is necessary to minimize wavefront aberrations and to enable precise focussing of a therapeutic laser beam on the retina. The location of the external laser beam on the retina is determined with the help of two synchronized detectors and image processing. One detector is used to localize moving fiducial landmarks of the retina. A second detector is used to locate on the retina the external laser aiming beam. Two different confocal apertures are used. Polarizing the aiming beam is necessary to further reduce unwanted reflections from the anterior corneal surface.

Abstract: A modified scanning laser ophthalmoscope expands the range of clinical applications of the conventional scanning laser ophthalmoscope, being able of presenting the scanning laser raster with graphics to the retina and simultaneously allowing the observation of the anterior segment on the display monitor. The device, including a beamsplitter, infrared lightsource, scanning laser ophthalmoscope, CCD camera, and optical filters, determines unambiguously in real-time the entrance pupil of the Maxwellian view scanning laser ophthalmoscope. The location of the entrance pupil and stimulus position on the retina can be moved independently.

Abstract: A binocular scanning laser ophthalmoscope expands the range of clinical applications of the conventional scanning laser ophthalmoscope, being able of presenting the scanning laser raster with or without graphics to one eye or to both at the same time and simultaneously allowing the observation of either eye or both on the display monitor. The device, including a beamsplitter, mirrors, and optical filters, enables switching up to video between the different options without the need for moving the scanning laser ophthalmoscope from one eye to the other. Lenses can be inserted in the optical pathway for the correction of ametropia. A pupillary distance control for both eyes optimizes the Maxwellian view on both sides.