Morphologic analysis of macular neovascularizations by OCT angiography-Technical limitations in the comparison of 3×3mm and 6×6mm images.

Abstract

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to ascertain whether there are relevant differences between the vascular morphology of macular neovascularizations (MNV) in 3×3mm and 6×6mm images, produced by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).MethodsMNV of 49 patients were automated quantitative analysed, measuring area, flow, the fractal dimension, average vessel length, vascular density, and average vessel caliber. These parameters were compared between the 3×3mm and the 6×6mm images.ResultsA strong linear association was found between the 3×3mm and the 6×6mm images. While area, flow, and FD of the MNV were very similar, the 3×3mm images showed significantly lower average total vessel length, greater vascular density, and lower average vessel caliber.ConclusionIn quantitative analysis of the morphologic parameters of MNV in 3×3mm and 6×6mm images, the structures are not directly equivalent in the two sizes of scan. The images must be evaluated on an individual basis.