Invention:
This technology is a low-cost, portable, scan-less in vivo confocal ophthalmoscope (PICO) that uses a water-immersion objective lens in combination with a multi-slit illumination and detection system. It enables high-resolution, non-invasive imaging of the anterior segment and external structures of the eye at the cellular and subcellular level. The device leverages grating-based confocal microscopy for compact design and faster imaging speeds, all without moving components.
Background:
Many current in vivo confocal imaging systems are costly, bulky, and require direct eye contact, which can cause patient discomfort. Alternative methods like optical coherence tomography (OCT) lack the resolution to visualize individual cells in the anterior eye. There is a growing demand for affordable, portable solutions for ophthalmic diagnostics, especially in point-of-care and community settings.
Applications:
- Early diagnosis and monitoring of corneal and external eye diseases
- Rapid, point-of-care ophthalmic imaging
- Mobile eye care services and telemedicine
- Integration into standard slit-lamp biomicroscopy in clinics
- Research on anterior eye segment pathology
Advantages:
- Water-immersion objective lens reduces corneal reflection and enhances resolution
- Low-cost and portable, suitable for point-of-care and global health applications
- No moving parts, leading to higher durability and reduced maintenance
- Faster imaging speeds with multi-slit and scan-less configuration
- Compatible with existing clinical infrastructure
