Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a fundamentally new type of optical imaging modality. OCT is a non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to take high-resolution, cross-section pictures of the retina, retinal nerve fiber layer, and the optic nerve head. OCT imaging is somewhat analogous to ultrasound B mode imaging except that it uses light instead of sound.
OCT images are two-dimensional data sets which represent the optical backscattering in a cross-sectional plane through the tissue. Image resolutions of 1 to 15 µm can be achieved one to two orders of magnitude higher than conventional ultrasound. Imaging can be performed in situ and in real time. The unique features of this technology enable a broad range of research and clinical applications.
Clinical studies have been performed to investigate the feasibility of using OCT for the diagnosis and monitoring of retinal diseases such as glaucoma, macular edema, macular hole, central serous 
chorioretinopathy, age related macular degeneration, epiretinal membranes, optic disc pits, and choroidal tumors.
Because morphological changes often occur before the onset of physical symptoms in these disease, OCT can provide a means for early detection. In addition, follow-up imagine can assess treatment effectiveness and recurrence of said disease.
Attractive features include high cellular-level resolution, real-time acquisition rates, and spectroscopic feature extraction in a compact noninvasive instrument. OCT can perform ‘‘optical biopsies’’ of tissue, producing images approaching the resolution of histology without having to resect and histologically process tissue specimens for characterization and diagnosis.
Optical coherence tomography is based on low-coherence interferometry, typically employing near-infrared light. The use of relatively long wavelength light allows it to penetrate into the scattering medium. Confocal microscopy, another optical technique, typically penetrates less deeply into the sample but with higher resolution. Depending on the properties of the light source. i.e., superluminescent diodes, ultrashort pulsed lasers and supercontinuum lasers, optical coherence tomography has achieved sub-micrometer resolution.
Not only is OCT being used in the fields of ophthalmology and optometry, it has also recently been used in interventional cardiology to help diagnose coronary artery disease. It has also shown promise in dermatology to improve the diagnostic process.
Working with OCT, and relying on high-resolution images is where Universe Optics comes in. Our team is dedicated to ensuring the precision lens for each application is of the highest quality. Each lens is designed and manufactured to meet your precise specifications for each instrument.
In general, there are three types of clinical scenarios where OCT could have important applications:
1) where conventional excisional biopsy is hazardous or impossible
2) where conventional biopsy has an unacceptably high false negative rate because of sampling errors
3) for guidance of surgical interventional procedures
Advances in OCT technology provide for better understanding of pathogenesis, improved monitoring of progression and assistance in quantifying response to treatment modalities in diseases of the posterior segment of the eye. Further improvements in both hardware and software technologies should further advance the clinician’s ability to assess and manage chorioretinal diseases.