Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT)

Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT)

The Retina Group of New York utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic Spectral Domain Heidelberg Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) to obtain high resolution images of the retina and underlying layers using low power, safe multicolor laser light through the pupil. High resolution images are obtained in seconds that are helpful in diagnosing and managing many conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusions, cystoid macular edema and central serous retinopathy. All images are displayed on large monitors and explained so that patients can readily see the progress of their treatments.

Preparation

At the start, you will be seated directly in front of the instrument. During the entire test, you will keep your head still with your chin resting on the chin rest and your head firmly against the instrument’s head band. The examiner will sit opposite from you on the other side of the instrument. You always look directly into the instrument, staring at a fixation point or at the point indicated by the eyecare professional. You can blink normally. The examination takes just a short time.

Examination

When the examination begins, a blue dot will appear in the instrument. You will be asked to stare at the blue dot during the entire examination. The examiner will move the instrument toward your eye without touching you. At a safe distance from the eye, the examiner is able to produce a good image of your retina or optic nerve head. A safe light beam scans the most important structures.

After Examination

The examination is completely painless for you and is done without touching your eye. After the examination, your vision will not be impaired. If your eyecare professional has not dilated your pupil to conduct the OCT test or another examination, you can drive as usual.