A new narrative review highlights the growing role of anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) in the assessment and management of ocular trauma and emergencies.
The review analyzed 86 studies identified through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on clinical applications rather than conducting a formal systematic review or meta-analysis.
AS-OCT emerged as a valuable noncontact imaging tool capable of generating high-resolution views of the anterior segment, even when visibility is limited by corneal opacity, edema, or hyphema. According to the included studies, AS-OCT supports rapid diagnosis of injuries such as corneal lacerations, globe perforations, traumatic cataracts, angle recession, and intraocular foreign bodies.
The review also noted the promise of anterior segment OCT angiography, which offers vascular imaging without dye injection. Early data show it may help detect limbal ischemia after chemical injuries, potentially improving prognosis by allowing earlier treatment.
However, the authors acknowledged limitations, including AS-OCT’s inability to visualize structures located behind the iris and its dependence on patient positioning and cooperation.
Reference
Asadigandomani H, Momeni A, Nusair O, et al. Clinical application of anterior segment optical coherence tomography in ocular emergencies: A comprehensive review. J Int Med Res. 2025;53(10):3000605251382298. doi: 10.1177/03000605251382298. Epub 2025 Oct 8. PMID: 41062104.
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