Adaptive Optics

Adaptive optics (AO) is used for in vivo visualization of individual cells in the retina; historically, this was only possible using in vitro histological methods. Today, AO imaging systems use active optical elements to correct wavefront aberrations in retinal technologies such as the flood-illumination fundus camera, scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), and optical coherence tomography (OCT). This tool also provides advanced lateral resolution, which facilitates the visualization of photoreceptors, retinal vasculature, and the optic nerve head. This chapter will highlight the history, technology, techniques, and application of AO, as well as the advantages and limitations of implementing AO imaging in a clinical setting.