Intraoperative use of three-dimensional spectral-domain optical coherence tomography.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE To develop a prototype three-dimensional anterior segment spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) device and demonstrate the feasibility of its use in the operating room. PATIENTS AND METHODS Single-institution interventional case series including six consecutive patients undergoing Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). The prototype anterior segment SD-OCT was used intraoperatively to search for the presence of interface fluid between the host cornea and the DSAEK graft. RESULTS Anterior segment SD-OCT was successfully used intraoperatively during DSAEK. After the initial placement of the graft, no fluid was clinically apparent; however, interface fluid was identified by anterior segment SD-OCT in two of the six cases. After additional aspiration, all patients were fluid-free on follow-up anterior segment SD-OCT scanning. CONCLUSION Intraoperative anterior segment SD-OCT was used successfully to find interface fluid that was clinically undetectable under the microscope. As such, all patients were able to leave the operating room with a fully attached graft.