Robotically aligned optical coherence tomography for socially distanced clinical ophthalmic imaging

The physical distancing requirements necessary to prevent spread of the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, requires a change in approach for clinical ophthalmic imaging. Conventional optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems require patients to position themselves in chin/forehead rests for stabilization with the system operator in close proximity. We developed a robotically aligning OCT (RAOCT) system that provides volumetric retinal images encompassing both the optic nerve head and fovea. Our RAOCT system self aligned to subjects’ eyes (seated, no contact with restraints), acquired OCT images of both normal and diseased retinas, all with allowing the operator behind a barrier >2 m from the subjects.