Optical CT (OCT) Scanning

An Optical CT (OCT) scan enables your optician to view your retina in 3D, rather than the 2D view presented by more conventional imaging methods. Using the latest technology from Heidelberg, each section of your retina can be imaged up to 100 times, and the results are then averaged to create a high definition final result.

OCT Scans for Macula Degeneration

The assessment of the macula, and excluding the presence of macula degeneration is one of the main benefits of an OCT scan. By viewing the retina one section at a time, any disruption due to macula degeneration can be assessed and then monitored on repeat visits. Fluid build-up underneath the retina, which can indicate the presence of wet macula degeneration, can also be seen on OCT scans and detection of this will enable rapid treatment to take place.

OCT Scans for Glaucoma

The early detection of Glaucoma is also made possible with an OCT scan. By assessing the thickness of the retinal nerve fibres in a 360 degree section around the head of the optic nerve, and comparing these thicknesses to the normal values that would be expected, any early loss of nerve fibre thickness can be detected and acted upon, in some cases before any visual symptoms are present. In the image above, the thickness of this patients nerve fibre layer is within the green "normal" ranges. This scan can then be used as a baseline measurement on future visits to accurately measure any nerve fibre losses.