Retinal thermometry in-vivo using phase-sensitive optical coherence tomography

Controlling tissue temperature during retinal laser therapy is crucial for predictable outcomes at non-damaging settings. We demonstrated a method for determining the temperature rise in the retina using phase-resolved optical coherence tomography in-vivo. By measuring the thermally induced optical pathlength changes during a 10-ms laser pulse, temperature rise can be detected with a precision of less than 0.5°C, enabling accurate calibration of laser power for non-damaging thermal therapy. Findings reveal significant differences in retinal deformation confinement between normal and degenerate retinas, suggesting a structural component within healthy photoreceptors that dampens the laser-induced tissue expansion, potentially serving for biomechanical diagnostics.