Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography, also known as Swept Source OCT or SS-OCT, is an advanced ophthalmic imaging technology used to diagnose and treat various eye-related diseases. In this technology, SS stands for swept-source, referring to the type of laser used in the device.
Swept Source OCT was first introduced in 2012. However, due to its significant advantages and enhanced usability over other imaging technologies such as Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) and Time Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (TD-OCT), it quickly became a superior technology for retinal and choroidal imaging in ophthalmology and other clinical fields.
In this piece, the history and evolution of SS-OCT and its advantages are discussed. Take a look.
History & Evolution of Swept Source OCT
Without a doubt, swept-source OCT has positively impacted and exceptionally contributed to the research of vitreous humor. However, it is interesting to learn how and when it all began. Let’s understand its journey in brief.
SS-OCT is a genre of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) technology. OCT was first introduced in 1990, and as anticipated, it revolutionized the ophthalmology industry by offering an imaging and diagnostic technique far superior to earlier methods. OCT enables eye surgeons to generate high-resolution, three-dimensional, and cross-sectional images of the posterior segment of the eye, which has greatly enhanced the precision and effectiveness of eye-related diagnostics and treatments.
For decades, prior to the advent of OCT, other imaging technologies like ultrasound waves or MRI were commonly used for imaging purposes. However, swept source optical coherence tomography employs a slightly different mechanism for achieving the same objective. Unlike sound waves or MRI techniques, OCT utilizes light waves for imaging. The shorter wavelength of light enables this technology to produce high-resolution, cross-sectional images with exceptional precision and zero delays, making it far more efficient for real-time diagnostic applications.
Time Domain technology was the first method utilized in OCT technology, which operates by using a low-coherent light source and a moving reference mirror to change the focus point, thereby generating data over time. As technology evolved, OCT was enhanced with a new method called Spectral Domain. Spectral Domain OCT revolutionized the process by enabling the generation of images with a single fixed focus point, eliminating the need for a moving mirror and thus achieving higher speeds and zero delays in imaging. This advancement significantly improved both the resolution and efficiency of OCT systems.
In 2012, the spectral domain was replaced by swept-source technology. The resultant technology is known as swept-source OCT.
Advantages of Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography
SS-OCT offers numerous advantages over other imaging technologies. Its low-coherence nature and zero delay time enable it to produce high-resolution, single-focus, and 3D images within a very short period. Below are some of the key advantages of Swept Source OCT:
- Swept source OCT offers significantly faster image acquisition, allowing for the production of images with a much wider scanning range, enhancing overall diagnostic capabilities.
- The deeper penetration of Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography enables it to capture detailed images of the choroid, vitreous, and retinal structures, even behind thick pre-retinal or pre-macular hemorrhages, which is challenging for other imaging techniques.
- SS-OCT eliminates sensitivity roll-off, meaning that images of both the vitreous and choroid can be generated simultaneously, providing more comprehensive visualizations in a single scan.
- The short wavelength of light used by SS-OCT allows for higher resolution images, making it easier to detect subtle changes in ocular structures.
- The gentle light source employed by Swept Source OCT not only aids in capturing detailed images but also ensures patient comfort, making it easier for them to remain still during the imaging process, which is essential for accurate results.
Inphenix is an established manufacturer of lasers and light sources based in the USA. At present, the company offers three different variants of Swept Sources- 1060nm, 1310nm, and 1550nm windows. These swept sources are ideal for OEM integration, Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography. Check out its website to know more about its other products and services.
