Contactless Robotic Optical Coherence Tomography

Article: Robotic Optical Coherence Tomography Revolutionizes Imaging
Source: Duke University Health
Published: April 20, 2021
Article: NEI-funded technology promises to broaden access to retinal scanning
Source: National Eye Institute
Published: July 22, 2021
Article: Robotic Scanner Automates Diagnostic Imaging in the Eye
Source: Duke Pratt School of Engineering
Published: August 4, 2021

OCT with a robotic arm and an active-tracking scan head
that automatically aligns itself with the patient’s pupil

Scientists developed a fully automated ocular coherence tomography (OCT) system that captures a three-dimensional image of the entire eye, including an active-tracking scanning head that aligns itself with the patient's pupil as well as the ability to safely distance operator and patient. The system builds off of earlier work in intraoperative OCT and handheld OCT from colleagues within their institution, now adapted for physical distancing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, the present iteration of a robotic OCT foregoes the need for chin and forehead rests for stabilization, relying instead on two sets of cameras that track the face and pupil, moving with patient movements to compensate for subtle motions. Additionally, as a comfort feature, patients use a foot pedal to control the robotic arm; when the patient takes his/her foot off the pedal, the robot moves away. A contactless OCT imaging modality also improves accessibility for patients with mobility difficulties, such as children and those who are wheelchair-bound. Advancements in the optical design of this system include working on a wider depth of field and the ability to visualize both the anterior and posterior segments of the eye simultaneously, capturing the entire eye in 3D. The ultimate goal of the project is to provide a one-to-one exact digital replica of the eye, which would enable studies related to the shape of the eye. They are testing applications of the technology in people with elevated intracranial pressure as a potential substitute for more expensive MRIs or more invasive spinal taps. The robotic design of the system should also facilitate telemedicine, since the robot can be sent to rural settings to capture images, the interpretation of which can be done by eye doctors remotely. The investigators report that early results of their system are encouraging both in terms of patient satisfaction and accuracy compared to traditional OCT.

My rating of this study: ⭐⭐⭐

Draelos M, Ortiz P, Qian R, et al. "Contactless optical coherence tomography of the eyes of freestanding individuals with a robotic scanner." Nature Biomedical Engineering.  5:726–736. 12 July 2021. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41551-021-00753-6