Adaptive optics imaging is an advanced technique that corrects for optical aberrations in the eye to obtain ultra-high-resolution images of retinal cells. It allows direct visualisation of individual photoreceptors and microvasculature.
How it Works
The system measures wavefront distortions caused by the eye’s optics and uses deformable mirrors or other elements to counteract them in real time. Corrected light paths sharpen the image, revealing fine structures normally blurred by aberrations.
- Often combined with scanning laser ophthalmoscopy or OCT
- Can resolve cone mosaics and, in some systems, rods and retinal pigment epithelium cells
- Requires good fixation and clear media for optimal quality
- Primarily used in specialised centres and research settings
Clinical and Research Uses
Adaptive optics imaging is valuable in studying inherited retinal diseases, early macular degeneration, and response to emerging therapies. It may help track photoreceptor survival and guide timing of interventions.
- Provides quantitative metrics of cell density and spacing
- Can detect subtle changes before conventional imaging shows abnormalities
- Helps correlate structure with functional tests such as microperimetry
- Current limitations include cost, complexity, and limited field of view
