Biomicroscopic vitreous observation using a 3 CCD video camera and a personal computer for image capture and archiving

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical usefulness of a newly developed biomicroscopic vitreous observation system. Vitreous observation was performed in 300 eyes with age- or disease-related vitreous changes using a 3 CCD video camera mounted on a slit-lamp biomicroscope and connected to a personal computer for real-time observation and especially for the capture and archiving of images. Various types of fundus lenses were used to scan the vitreous status systemically from the posterior pole to the vitreous base. This system allowed us to obtain and immediately review the images of the vitreoretinal relationship. The image quality was sufficient for clinical evaluation of the vitreous status. We were able to identify some variations of posterior vitreous detachments and clarify the changes of the vitreoretinal interface in the study eyes. This system is very useful for the dynamic observation and documentation of vitreous images in order to determine the role of vitreous in many vitreoretinal disorders. Furthermore it is more convenient and affordable than previous methods.