Real-time OCT feedback-controlled RPE photodisruption in ex vivo porcine eyes using 8 microsecond laser pulses

Selective retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) photodisruption requires reliable real-time feedback dosimetry (RFD) to prevent unwanted overexposure. In this study, optical coherence tomography (OCT) based RFD was investigated in ex vivo porcine eyes exposed to laser pulses of 8 mu s duration (wavelength: 532 nm, exposure area: 90 x 90 mu m2, radiant exposure: 247 to 1975 mJ/mu m2). For RFD, fringe washouts in time-resolved OCT M-scans (central wavelength: 870 nm, scan rate: 85 kHz) were compared to an RPE cell viability assay. Statistical analysis revealed a moderate correlation between RPE lesion size and applied treatment energy, suggesting RFD adaptation to inter-and intraindividual RPE pigmentation and ocular transmission.