Image acquisition and analysis of conjunctival microvascular network

Abstract

In recent years, with the progress of image acquiring hardware and software, imaging of the bulbar conjunctiva as a variety of noninvasive observation method was frequently explored. Disorders that are commonly associated with microvascular complications, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus are of special interest regarding this aspect. The objective of this study was to establish a working model for gathering data that would enable the assessment of vascular alterations in the bulbar conjunctiva. A comprehensive conjunctival biomicroscopy was conducted, followed by the acquisition of video sequences using a camera attached to the slit-lamp through an adapter. These videos were then analyzed using an individually developed software to quantify microcirculation parameters. The video recordings were examined using a custom computer algorithm that provided valuable data on microcirculatory parameters as vessel diameter, tortuosity, blood velocity, and blood flow. Although the main focus of this study was to develop and present a functional and efficient system for data acquisition and analysis, it is worth noting that our preliminary findings show a degree of consistency and alignment with results reported in pioneering studies, thereby supporting the validity and potential of our approach. The developed model allows the semi-automatic determination of microcirculation parameters in the bulbar conjunctiva, which may be useful in quantifying microvascular dysfunction in a non-invasive manner.