What do you need to know about optical coherence tomography (OCT)?
OCT is used to evaluate the anterior or posterior pole of the eye. It is indicated in all cases of blurred or distorted vision, depending also on other parameters.
It is an investigation that helps to correctly and completely diagnose and monitor certain ophthalmological disorders. Our clinics are equipped with Optopol Revo NX OCT Ophthalmology devices, the fastest and most accurate on the market. Optical coherence tomography allows the ophthalmologist to individually visualize the retinal layers and obtain a 3D view of the eye.
Optical coherence tomography is a non-invasive imaging technology used to obtain high-resolution, cross-sectional images. OCT uses light rays, no radiation or X-rays are used in this test, an OCT scan is harmless and not uncomfortable.
Optical coherence tomography uses technology that is best compared to ultrasound, except that it uses light rather than sound and so achieves higher resolution. These light waves illuminate and scan your retina, giving the doctor a detailed view so that the retina can be assessed at near cellular resolution.
Anterior pole OCT helps diagnose and monitor glaucoma, corneal disorders, keratoconus, etc.
Optic nerve OCT is mainly recommended in cases of glaucoma, and in all cases indicating optic nerve damage.
Macular OCT is used in cases of diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), macular holes, retinal detachment, etc.
Benefits of OCT investigation
- Non-Invasive – OCT scan gives your doctor an in-depth look at your eyes.
- Allows the diagnosis and monitoring of several ophthalmological disorders – OCT is an excellent tool in diagnosing eye diseases and in tracking the evolution of degenerative disorders. It can even diagnose other diseases such as high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis and vascular diseases.
- It is very accurate
- It is a painless procedure
- Does not require anesthesia
- Does not use X-rays, does not irradiate
What does optical coherence tomography involve?
From beginning to the end, an OCT examination takes 3-5 minutes. It is non-invasive and painless. Drops are instilled to dilate the pupil, then the patient places the chin on a holder and the eye must be kept open while the patient looks at a bright spot. This is performed one eye at a time, and the device takes images of the retina which it processes immediately, giving the result on the spot.
Your doctor will probably recommend an OCT examination if you have an increased risk of eye disease:
- Age over 50
- A personal history of certain eye disorders
- A family history of eye diseases
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
What disorders can be diagnosed with optical coherence tomography?
OCT can diagnose a wide range of disorders:
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal detachment
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Macular hole
- Macular edema
- Uveitis
- Corneal injuries
- Keratoconus
- Optic nerve disease
OCT provides the optometrist with a lot of information about eye health. Whether you are at risk of eye disease or simply have a routine eye examination, OCT images are a tool that provides valuable insight.