Retromode imaging: Review and perspectives

Retromode imaging with infrared lasers is a novel imaging method which has been made possible by the newly introduced confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope. Retromode imaging uses a laterally deviated confocal aperture with a central stop, which creates a shadow and allows deep retinal and retinal pigment epithelium changes to be visualized as pseudo-3-dimensional images. Its clinical value coupled with its simple, rapid, and noninvasive nature is increasingly appreciated. The combination of retromode imaging with conventional imaging methods such as fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography can help to precisely and comprehensively evaluate pathophysiologic features of retinal disorders. This review summarizes basic principles of imaging and retromode findings in various retinal disorders and is expected to guide future investigations of retromode imaging.