Digital simultaneous fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, autofluorescence, and red-free imaging with a solid-state laser-based confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope.
OBJECTIVE
To describe and to evaluate a novel confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (cSLO) for fluorescence angiography, fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and red-free imaging.


METHODS
Digital infrared, red-free, FAF, fluorescein, and indocyanine green (ICG) angiography images were obtained with a cSLO in 766 patients. An optically pumped solid-state laser generates the excitation wavelength (488 nm) required for red-free, FAF, and fluorescein angiography images. For ICG angiography and infrared imaging, diode laser sources at 790 and 820 nm are used. Further features include an internal fixation control and a focus range of -24 to +30 diopters.


RESULTS
High-image quality is achieved with a resolution of up to 5 microm per pixel in 30- x 30-degree images and allows for accurate delineation of normal and pathologic features. Simultaneous angiography offers high-contrast images. Corresponding display of quasi-simultaneous frames facilitates interpretation. A small focus difference between fluorescein and ICG scans occurs because of chromatic aberrations. Automated alignment and generation of mean images from several single frames allow for acquisition of high-resolution FAF images.


CONCLUSIONS
Various laser-source related, optical, and electronic innovations improve cSLO fundus imaging for routine clinical application. A solid-state laser has advantages compared to argon gas laser sources, including less space occupation, heat emission, and noise production.
Jorzik
Jork J
JJ
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Heidelberg, Germany.
Bindewald
Almut
A
Dithmar
Stefan
S
Holz
Frank G
FG
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002829:Choroid / Q000098:blood supply; D015862:Choroid Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D004396:Coloring Agents; D005260:Female; D005451:Fluorescein Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D005453:Fluorescence; D006801:Humans; D007208:Indocyanine Green; D007834:Lasers; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009887:Ophthalmoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D010781:Photography / Q000379:methods*; D012164:Retinal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012171:Retinal Vessels / Q000473:pathology
D004396:Coloring Agents; D007208:Indocyanine Green