Focused Delivery of Laser Energy to the Eye Using Adaptive Optics

Characterization of retinal damage mechanisms from ultrafast lasers requires measurement and correction of ocular aberrations because non-linear optical effects dominate this regime. Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) has successfully completed a Phase I program to show feasibility and initiate the development of an adaptive optics laser irradiation and imaging system. A line-scanning laser ophthalmoscope and wavefront sensor were designed, constructed, integrated, and tested on human volunteers. The instrument produced wide-field, high-contrast, confocal retinal images and simultaneously measured wavefront aberrations with high accuracy and repeatability. In Phase II PSI, with assistance from researchers at Indiana University, proposes to develop an adaptive optics spectral domain optical coherence tomography (AO-SDOCT) system. A deformable mirror and SDOCT instrument will be added to the Phase I system to achieve micron-level transverse and longitudinal resolution. The AO-SDOCT system will include a port for delivery of aberration-free laser spots to the retina. This novel system will include enhancements that will make it suitable for use in both research and clinical investigations. The system will be tested on human subjects and delivered to AFRL/HEDO for use in laser safety and damage mechanism studies. A successful program will have broad impact on a multitude of military, research and clinical applications.