OCT eye tests

The health of our eyes and safeguarding our ability to see is of vital importance to us all. An OCT (ocular coherence tomography) scan can check for signs of a number of serious health conditions that can affect our eyes and our wider well-being. 

A standard eye test will include a basic health check of the eye but using a state of the art 3D ocular coherence tomography camera the optometrist can take a three dimensional scan of the back of the eye. This takes just a few minutes and, as OCT scans work using light, they are non-invasive and painless. However, the results can allow us to instantly identify the presence of a number of common conditions.

An OCT scan is very similar to an optical ultrasound and the unique way the image is formed means we can actually see below the surface of the retina and view the microscopic layers beneath. This is hugely beneficial in determining the precise diagnosis of visual problems.

By saving the images and results we can also closely monitor any future changes to the condition of the retina and the health of your eyes.

An OCT eye test can detect early signs of change that may indicate the onset of conditions such as age related macular degeneration, enabling treatment to start early.  Other conditions such as vitreous detachments and holes in the macular can also clearly be diagnosed using the OCT. This is invaluable as with a detachment there is no pain and your eyesight will seem unchanged but the back of your eye may be damaged leading to further complications at a later date.

An OCT scan can be conducted during a standard eye test appointment. There is an additional charge but the benefits are significant, allowing you to enjoy the peace of mind that your eyes are in great condition.

If you would like to include an OCT eye test, please tell us when you book an appointment.  Any of our opticians can carry out this scan and the results will be analysed by Optometrists, Peter or Pratik, who are both fully trained and qualified to identify everything and spot any anomalies.

 

Image courtesy of Carlos Porto / FreeDigitalPhotos.net