New MRI technique visualises complete eye structure

3D MRI offers objective diagnosis for eye deformities and pathologic myopia.

A breakthrough 3D MRI technique now allows for comprehensive visualisation of the entire eye structure, revolutionising diagnostic accuracy in ophthalmology.

Kyoko Ohno-Matsui, Professor, Department of Ophthalmology at Tokyo Medical and Dental University said that in using T2-weighted MRI, the team performs volume rendering to isolate and visualise the eye, enabling a full view of its shape from any angle.

“We can see how the anterior segment is deformed or not, so that’s a strength,” Ohno-Matsui noted.

This technology enhances diagnostic capabilities by enabling objective assessments, particularly for conditions like pathologic myopia.

Previously, diagnosing posterior staphyloma—a characteristic of pathologic myopia—relied on subjective examinations. However, 3D MRI provides a clear, objective visualisation of eye deformities, allowing for accurate diagnosis of pathologic myopia without relying on axial elongation measurements.

“So even in eyes without axial elongation, we see deformity in the eye. In other words, we can diagnose pathologic myopia in an objective way,” she added.

Looking ahead, Ohno-Matsui envisions even more advanced imaging capabilities. “Now… we visualise a still limited area of the posterior fundus. But in the near future, maybe half of the eye… even the entire eye visualisation combined with anterior and posterior imaging that would provide great information to the eye shape.”