Advancements in the Use of OCTA for Studying Intraocular Pressure and Retinal Perfusion

Abstract

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a non-invasive imaging technique that analyzes the microvascular system of the eye. By capturing high-speed, repeated scans to detect the movement of red blood cells, OCTA visualizes the vascular network, revealing ischemia and reperfusion patterns in retinal vascular diseases. It has become a primary tool for assessing changes in the multilayer microvascular structure of the retina, applicable in conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, central serous chorioretinopathy, vascular occlusions, and glaucomatous optic neuropathy, among others. Moreover, OCTA is useful in the assessment of central nervous system diseases and is increasingly utilized in routine health examinations and scientific research. Its main advantages include high resolution, rapid, non-invasive scanning, and the ability to analyze microcirculation by observing different vascular layers through tomographic imaging. However, its sensitivity to blood flow velocity and susceptibility to artifacts, such as slow blood flow appearing as non-perfusion, are notable limitations. Overall, OCTA provides a visually intuitive approach for observing retinal blood flow and has significant clinical implications for ocular conditions.