OCT en-face images from the retina with adjustable depth resolution in real time

A source with adjustable coherence length is devised and used to illuminate an OCT for en-face imaging of the retina of the human eye in vivo. Two modes of operation are described. The added capability of adjusting the depth resolution in real time while imaging patients is discussed. The utility of the OCT en-face imaging with adjustable coherence length for diagnostics is illustrated by images taken from the eye of a volunteer. Similar images with those produced by scanning laser ophthalmoscopes are produced for the first time in real time using OCT.