Light scattering and wavefront aberrations in in vivo imaging of the rat eye: A comparison study

Abstract

Purpose. In vivo imaging of the retina is becoming an increasingly important research method. General anesthesia rapidly compromises the corneal surface, which increases scattering. In addition, wavefront aberrations limit the maximum imaging resolution. Three common methods of stabilizing the air-cornea interface and reducing scattering are the use of a contact lens, a microscopy slide coverslip, or mineral oil. These methods have not yet been analyzed regarding their impact on scattering and wavefront aberrations. Methods. Nineteen eyes of 19 rats were analyzed with a custom-made Hartmann-Shack (HS) wavefront sensor. The amount of scattering was determined by analysis of the HS spot width,..