Optical Coherence Tomography
What is OCT?
An OCT scan is similar to an MRI or CAT scan for the eyes. OCT technology can image in 3D allowing your practitioner to see problems within your eye that could not easily be seen before.
Advances in technology over the last 15 years have transformed eyecare, with OCT now common within most hospitals. However, only the most advanced Optometry practices offer this technology. i2i Optometrists has chosen to invest in OCT, in order to ensure that your eyesight is protected, both now and in the future. An OCT scan is performed as part of an enhanced eye examination. An enhanced eye examination tests not only your sight but also the health of your eye.
An OCT test is very simple, takes just a few seconds and is completely non-contact, meaning there are no sudden puffs of air or flashes of light. Any areas of your eye which appear unusual can then be measured with the OCT and monitored over time with additional scans, at a later date. These scans can be lined up with the original and compared to see if any changes have occurred over time in your eye.
What can you see with OCT?
OCT technology mainly looks at your retina, checking for any abnormalities or damage. The retina can be damaged by many common diseases such as Glaucoma, Diabetes and Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). All of these can lead to visual impairment or even blindness if not detected and managed properly. OCT technology allows your Optometrist to identify any potential problems at a much earlier stage, usually allowing you better treatment options and potentially a better visual outcome.