OCT 3D Eye Scan

Advanced eye scan examining the retina and its sub layers

OCT is an advanced eye scan, similar to ultrasound but using light rather than sound waves. The scan sees under the retina in 3D to parts that cannot be seen by ordinary examination.

Many eye conditions begin in the lower layers of the retina below the surface. The OCT scan illustrates the 10 different retinal layers in 3D cross section, a bit like slicing through a cake and seeing all the invisible layers below. A number of key conditions such as glaucoma, age related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy can be detected among others, however the scan can also help to confirm that the eyes are healthy.

A digital photograph of the retinal surface of the eye is also captured at the same time as the scan to cross reference any areas of concern.

We have been using OCT technology in our practice since 2012 and found it to be invaluable in interpreting the health of the eye.  With renewed investment in OCT technology both consulting rooms are equipped with an OCT, one of which is the Topcon Maestro 2 OCT retinal scan incorporating OCT-A technology (angiography of the retinal blood vessels). OCT scan technology enables our Optometrists to build a clearer picture of your eye health with the precise and accurate data obtained from the scans.

The OCT scan only takes a couple of minutes to perform but the detailed information captured in those few minutes has already saved the sight for some of our patients and also enabled both children and adults to receive earlier monitoring than would have been possible if only a general examination had been carried out.

We highly recommend that everyone has an OCT, children and adults alike, so that a history can be built up of the retina and its layers. This way changes can be detected, diagnosed and treated if necessary.