The functional significance of the RPCP has been recognized due to its role supplying the densely packed nerve fiber layer (NFL) bundles in this region 4, 5, 6. The radial peripapillary capillaries have a unique anatomic organization because they run in parallel with the NFL axons, as opposed to the deeper vascular plexuses, which have a lobular configuration 4, 5. The fourth network is a regional layer called the radial peripapillary capillary plexus (RPCP). There are two deeper capillary networks above and below the inner nuclear layer (INL) referred to as the “intermediate” and “deep” capillary plexuses, or ICP and DCP, respectively, which are supplied by vertical anastomoses from the SVP 1, 2. The superficial vascular plexus (SVP) is supplied by the central retinal artery and composed of larger arteries, arterioles, capillaries, venules, and veins vessels primarily in the ganglion cell layer (GCL). From these early studies, we know that there are up to four retinal vascular networks in the macula ( Fig. Our current understanding of the retinal vascular networks developed from pioneering work on primate histology 1, 2. This could serve as a basis for future investigation of both normal retinal anatomy, as well as vascular malformations, nonperfusion, and neovascularization. Based on these data, we propose an improved system of nomenclature and segmentation boundaries for detailed 3-dimensional retinal vascular anatomy by OCTA. The vascular pattern in these retinal plexuses and interconnecting layers are consistent with previous histologic studies. Our investigation in normal human volunteers revealed the presence of 2 to 4 distinct vascular plexuses in the retina, depending on location relative to the optic disc and fovea. This novel technology allowed us to study the normal retinal vasculature in vivo with better depth resolution than previously possible.
The projection-resolved (PR) OCTA algorithm improves depth resolution by removing projection artifact while retaining in-situ flow signal from real blood vessels in deeper layers. However, vascular depth discrimination is limited by superficial vessels projecting flow signal artifact onto deeper layers. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a noninvasive method of 3D imaging of the retinal and choroidal circulations.
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