This topic will help you learn about the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) eye fundus examination and how to prepare for it.
What is the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) eye fundus examination?
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is an imaging technique used to create a picture of the back part of the eye, called the retina, and the optic nerve, by measuring the amount of faint red light reflected from the retina and optic nerve. The cross-sectional images are three-dimensional and color-coded.
An ophthalmologist can see each layer of the retina, allowing them to map and measure its thickness. These measurements assist in diagnosis and provide treatment guidance for and retinal diseases. Retinal diseases include age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic eye disease.
When is the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) eye fundus examination performed?
Healthcare providers use the test to diagnose and manage many eye conditions, including:
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- Age-related Macular Degeneration (Dry Macular Degeneration).
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- Cystoid Macular Edema (Cystoid Macular Edema).
- Macular Pucker (Macular Pucker).
- Macular Hole (Macular Hole).
- Cone Dystrophy.
- Tumors in the choroid and retina.
How do you prepare for the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) eye fundus examination?
- To prepare you for the OCT examination, the ophthalmologist may first place dilating eye drops in your eyes. These drops widen the pupils and make it easier to examine the retina.
- You will sit in front of the OCT device and place your head on a support to keep it still. The device will then scan your eye without touching it. The scan takes about 5 to 10 minutes. If your eyes are dilated, they may be sensitive to light for several hours after the examination.
