Optical coherence tomography, known as OCT, enables a 3D scan of the retina at the back of your eye. It’s a more advanced version of the retinal photography you usually have as part of your eye exam. OCT works similarly to an ultrasound scan, but instead of using sound waves, it uses light to scan your eye. The 3D rendering produced by the scanner shows the many layers of the retina and the head of the optic nerve, which carries information from the eye to the brain.
Once your eyes have been scanned, which is quick, easy and non-invasive, the results will be available right away for the optometrist to review. They will be able to view the layers of your retina, measure the thickness, and inspect it for minute changes that could indicate a possible problem.
The main benefit of including an OCT scan in your eye examination is the peace of mind it gives you that your eye health has been thoroughly checked. This cutting-edge technology gives more detailed information about your eyes than any retinal photography, meaning the best chance of catching potential eye problems in the earliest stages when they are most treatable.
OCT can be used to recognise and diagnose eye conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment. We recommend including an OCT scan every time you have an eye exam so the optometrist can compare your current scan with the previous ones and spot any minute changes in your eyes.
As you get older, your risk of developing a sight-threatening eye condition grows. By having regular eye exams with OCT scans, you can rest assured that you are doing everything you can to look after your vision for the future.
If you already have a condition such as glaucoma or diabetes, OCT is an excellent way of keeping track of your eye health and any changes in it to support the management of these conditions. The results can be used to refer you to an ophthalmologist if required.
If you would like to gain extra peace of mind about the health of your eyes going forward, contact us to book your appointment today.
