Hybrid approach to retinal tracking and laser aiming for photocoagulation

Abstract

The initial experimental results of a new hybrid digital and analog design for retinal tracking and laser beam control are described. The results demonstrate tracking rates that exceed the equivalent of 60 deg per second in the eye, with automatic creation of lesion patterns and robust loss of lock detection. Robotically assisted laser surgery to treat conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and retinal tears can soon be realized under clinical conditions with requisite safety using standard video hardware and inexpensive optical components.