Analyzing Retinal Microanatomy in ROP

The swept source optical coherence tomography device was developed at Duke University as the result of collaboration between the Departments of Ophthalmology and Biomedical Engineering. The SSOCT system has a 100kHz repetition rate, 1050nm-centered swept-source light source (Axsun Technologies). This swept-source system allows near real-time OCT imaging during movement while imaging and it provides better OCT imaging of the choroid. The SSOCT system is a non-contact device and therefore does not touch the eye.

Non-sedated research brain MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a minimal risk procedure that uses a magnet and radio waves to make diagnostic medical images of the body. There have been no ill effects reported from exposure to the magnetism or radio waves used in this test. However, it is possible that harmful effects could be recognized in the future. A known risk is that the magnet could attract certain kinds of metal. Therefore, we will carefully ask about metal within the body. If there is any question about potentially hazardous metal within the body, MRI imaging will not be performed. We will also keep the examining room locked so that no one carrying metal objects can enter while the child is in the scanner.

Serum/plasma (residual in the laboratory) collected as part of clinically indicated care will be shipped to the University of Florida for neuroinflammatory biomarker testing to identify central nervous system cellular injury.