LOW-COHERENCE LOCK-IN INTERFEROMETER FOR OPHTHALMOLOGY

The measurement of short distances by interferometry using low coheren ce light is a potential option in the study of interfaces between intr aocular elements. In this article we describe an experimental device t o measure the distance between such interfaces in vitro. The procedure utilizes a Michelson interferometer to generate the probe beams toget her with a silicate photodetector system and a lock-in synchronous amp lifier. The cornea and crystalline lens thickness of a rabbit eyeball are evaluated, as well as the human cornea in preservative solution. T hese tests indicate the method to be efficient, easy-to-handle, of hig h resolution and to present a signal-to-noise ratio of up to 12. We co nsider the possibility of its use in obtaining information about the d egeneration of intraocular structures during the preservation process. (C) 1998 American Institute of Physics.