Optical Coherence Tomography

Seeing Beyond the Surface: Understanding Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

At our Dalby and Chinchilla practice, we are committed to providing you with the most advanced eye care available. That’s why we utilize Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – a revolutionary, non-invasive imaging technology that allows us to see beneath the surface of your eye with incredible detail.

Think of OCT as an “optical ultrasound” for your eye. Using light waves, it creates highly detailed, cross-sectional images of the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye) and the optic nerve (which connects your eye to your brain). These images reveal the microscopic layers and structures within your eye that cannot be seen with traditional examination methods.

How Does OCT Work?

The OCT instrument directs a harmless beam of light into your eye. This light reflects off the different layers of your retina and optic nerve. The OCT system then measures how long it takes for the light to return, translating these measurements into a precise, color-coded, 3D map of your eye’s internal structures. It’s similar to how ultrasound uses sound waves, but OCT uses light, achieving much higher resolution.

Why is OCT Important for Your Eye Health?

OCT has become an indispensable tool in modern optometry, offering several critical benefits:

• Early Detection: OCT can identify subtle changes in your eye long before you experience any noticeable symptoms or vision loss. This allows for earlier diagnosis and intervention, which is crucial for preserving your sight.
• Precise Monitoring: For existing eye conditions, OCT provides objective, quantifiable measurements. This allows your optometrist to accurately track progression or stability over time, ensuring your treatment plan is effective.
• Personalized Baselines: We can create a baseline measurement of your unique eye anatomy. This “snapshot” serves as a vital reference point for all future examinations, making it easier to detect even minor deviations that could indicate disease progression.
• Enhanced Diagnosis: The detailed cross-sectional views help us distinguish between different conditions and understand their exact location and impact on your eye.

Common Eye Conditions Managed with OCT

OCT is particularly valuable in the management of several common and potentially sight-threatening eye diseases:

• Glaucoma: This “silent thief of sight” damages the optic nerve. OCT precisely measures the thickness of the nerve fiber layer and optic nerve head, helping us detect early glaucoma, monitor its progression, and assess the effectiveness of treatment.
• Macular Degeneration (AMD): Affects central vision. OCT reveals changes in the macula, such as fluid buildup, swelling, or thinning, aiding in the diagnosis and management of both “wet” and “dry” forms of AMD.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: A complication of diabetes that can damage blood vessels in the retina. OCT helps detect and monitor swelling (macular edema) and other retinal changes caused by diabetes.
• Macular Holes and Epiretinal Membranes: These are structural abnormalities of the macula that can cause distorted or blurry central vision. OCT provides clear images for diagnosis and monitoring.

What to Expect During Your OCT Scan?

The OCT scan is quick, comfortable, and completely non-invasive.

1. Positioning: You will sit comfortably and place your chin on a chin rest and your forehead against a headrest, similar to a regular eye examination.
2. Focusing: You will simply look straight ahead at a target light within the instrument.
3. The Scan: The OCT device will quickly scan your eye. You might see a soft, harmless light moving across your vision, but you won’t feel anything.
4. Quick Process: The scan itself takes only a few seconds per eye.
5. No Drops Required: In most cases, no dilating eye drops are needed, meaning your vision won’t be blurred after the scan.
6. Results Discussion: Your optometrist will then review the detailed images with you, explaining the findings and how they relate to your eye health.

At our Dalby and Chinchilla practice, using OCT technology allows us to provide you with the highest level of comprehensive eye care, protecting your vision for today and for the future.