How is Adaptive Optics Applied in Medical Imaging?

In the context of medical imaging, adaptive optics has been instrumental in enhancing the resolution of optical instruments. For instance, in ophthalmology, AO systems are used in retinal imaging to provide high-resolution images of the retina, which can help in the early detection and management of eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. The high resolution allows for the visualization of individual photoreceptor cells, capillaries, and other microscopic structures that are often crucial for accurate diagnosis.