What Is an Optical Coherence Tomography Scan?

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive scan used to aid in the diagnosis of specific diseases of the eye and retina. This procedure uses light waves to take cross-sectional images of the structure being scanned. We often use this technology to evaluate changes within the optic nerve in glaucoma and changes within the macula for many macular conditions.

 

How an OCT Scan Works

Many eye conditions can creep up on you. Some of them do not have significant symptoms. So keep in mind that even if your eyes and vision appear fine, you still need regular comprehensive eye exams. An OCT scan, for example, will help your eye doctor determine what is going on beneath your eye’s surface. 

 

The imaging procedure generates a clear picture of the retina by measuring the dim red light reflecting off it. Often, eye doctors use the optical coherence tomography scan to image the eyes of people with glaucoma. 

 

During the test, they will ask you to rest your chin on a machine and look into a lens. The scan takes a few minutes for each eye and is painless. If you feel nervous about undergoing eye exams, this should give you some confidence.

 

When Is an OCT Scan Useful?

Optometrists use this type of scan for diagnosis, treatment, or management of various ocular conditions. These include:

 

• Glaucoma
   

• Macular edema
   

• Drusen
   

• Age-related macular degeneration
   

• Vitreomacular traction
   

• Evaluation of macula
   

• Retinal assessment
   

• Retinoschisis
   

• Epiretinal membrane
   

• Optic nerve head drusen
   

• Neovascularization
   

• Central serous chorioretinopathy
   

• & more
  
  
   

To learn more about optical tomography scans, contact Williamsburg Eye Care at our office in Williamsburg, Virginia. You can call (757) 564-1907 today to schedule an appointment.