What is an OCT retinal scan?

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging test. OCT uses light waves to take cross-section pictures of your retina. With OCT, your ophthalmologist can see each of the retina’s distinctive layers. This allows your ophthalmologist to map and measure their thickness.

Why do they test for OCT in eyes?

Early detection means we can treat diseases like glaucoma, or halt the progress of macular degeneration, before they cause irreversible vision damage. The OCT permits us to diagnose many eye conditions, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and various retinal an macular issues.

Are OCT scans worth it?

The routine sight test is good at detecting signs of eye disease. OCT scans can also be used to monitor the progress of signs of ageing or wear and tear in your eye, and some optometrists recommend taking an OCT scan to use as a record of what is normal for you.

How is an OCT scan done?

OCT technology uses light waves to take images of your retina; similar to how an ultrasound scan uses sound waves. During an OCT scan, you will be asked to sit in front of a small machine with your chin placed on a support. The scan is done on both eyes, one at a time.

What can an OCT detect?

With an OCT, doctors are able to see a cross section or 3D image of the retina and detect the early onset of a variety of eye conditions and eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy (the top three diseases known to cause blindness).

What does an OCT scan look like?

The OCT scan uses light waves to create an image, similar to an ultrasound that uses sound waves to create an image. During the test, you will sit with your chin resting on a support. The OCT will scan each of your eyes, while you fix your gaze on a green target.

How often should you have an OCT scan?

Even if your vision and eye health are perfectly fine, we still recommend an OCT scan with every eye test. It’s really useful for your optician to have a baseline image on file, so they can monitor any changes over time.

What are OCT images?

Optical Coherence Tomography is a noninvasive imaging technology used to obtain high resolution cross-sectional images of the retina. OCT uses rays of light to measure retinal thickness. No radiation or X-rays are used in this test, an OCT scan does not hurt and it is not uncomfortable.

What can OCT detect?

How much are OCT machines?

OCT machine prices vary widely, going from $35,000 to over $100,000. Prices drop significantly for a used or refurbished unit, starting at less than $10,000. The best OCT machines in the market are offered by the brand Zeiss, specialized in ophthalmologic devices.

How long does an OCT eye scan take?

The OCT scan is a very quick process and should take no longer than a few minutes.

How does a retinal scan work?

A retinal scan is performed by casting an unperceived beam of low-energy infrared light into a person’s eye as they look through the scanner’s eyepiece. This beam of light traces a standardized path on the retina.

What is an Oct eye exam?

OCT is often used to evaluate disorders of the optic nerve as well. The OCT exam helps your ophthalmologist see changes to the fibers of the optic nerve. For example, it can detect changes caused by glaucoma. OCT relies on light waves. It cannot be used with conditions that interfere with light passing through the eye.

What is Oct exam eye?

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a retinal scan used to study the anatomy of the retina and optic nerve in fine detail. OCT testing requires dilation of the pupils but does not require a needle in the arm and does not involve touching the eye.

What is an Oct eye test?