What is optical coherence tomography (OCT)?

OCT is an imaging technique that eye care professionals use to create cross-section images of the eye. It measures wavelengths of infrared light that bounce off the back of the eye (your retina). OCT enables eye professionals to look at the eye in layers and measure the thickness of key structures, which assists them in diagnosing and treating eye disease.

When applied to examine your eye, optical coherence tomography has also been referred to as ocular coherence tomography (ocular refers to relating to the eye). Physicians from other specialities have recently started applying OCT to study other tissues. OCT has introduced a new method for viewing blood vessels (angiography). Cardiology, neurology and oncology physicians have all discovered OCT imaging applications.

When do I need an OCT eye examination?

Your doctor may recommend an optical coherence tomography if you present with symptoms that indicate certain eye conditions, or if they notice signs of certain conditions during your eye examination. If you are at risk of age-related eye issues or other eye diseases, your doctor may recommend including ocular coherence tomography in your routine eye exam schedule. They can then compare the scans year after year to see if there are any changes.

What are some eye conditions that optical coherence tomography can diagnose and treat?

Eye doctors commonly use OCT to image your retina and optic nerve at the back of your eye. This assists them in diagnosing retinal disease and associated conditions that can harm your vision, such as:

• Bull's eye maculopathy.
• Central serous retinopathy.
• Cystoid macular edema.
• Diabetes-related macular edema.
• Diabetes-related retinopathy.
• Eye cancer.
• Glaucoma.
• Macular degeneration.
• Optic atrophy.
• Posterior vitreous detachment.
• Retinal detachment.
• Retinal tears.
• Retinoschisis.

Medical professionals occasionally use OCT to examine the front of your eye as well. It can assist them in planning eye surgery or diagnosing problems in the front of your eye.

How does optical coherence tomography work?

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) functions just like ultrasound, another non-contact imaging technique. Ultrasound (sonography) reflects inaudible sound waves off your tissues and detects the echo to form three-dimensional images. OCT imaging works similarly, reflecting invisible red light off your tissues and detecting it as it reflects back. This creates three-dimensional, cross-sectional images.

How is an OCT eye test performed?

An eye coherence tomography scan only requires a few minutes at your doctor's office. You won't be required to prepare beforehand. You may even get one right after your regular eye exam.

Before the test, your doctor may suggest using eye drops to dilate your pupils. Then, you'll sit in front of the scanner and rest your chin on a support attached to it. A green target will be the focus of your attention.

The OCT scanner will scan your eyes one at a time. You may notice a red line when it is scanning. You will not feel anything, and nothing will come in contact with your eyes. Try to remain still for the minute or two that it takes to scan.

Are there any side effects or complications of OCT?

There are no side effects or risks of optical coherence tomography. However, there are some temporary side effects of having your pupils dilated. You'll be light-sensitive and possibly have blurry vision for a few hours after. Some individuals experience headaches. If you're going to have your pupils dilated, you may want to make arrangements for someone else to drive you home from the test, as your vision will take time to adjust.

What kind of results do you obtain and what does the result signify?

Your eye care professional will review the pictures from your ocular coherence tomography scan. If they've done scans before, they'll compare the pictures. They'll share their results with you as soon as possible. Their results can verify whether you have a condition of your retina or optic nerve and how far along it is. Your doctor will use this information to determine the next steps in your treatment.

When do I need to see my doctor?

Be sure to get your routine eye exams so your doctor can monitor changes in your eyes. Don't hesitate to inform your provider of any unusual vision changes or symptoms.

Call immediately if you have:

• New or recurring eye pain.
• Difficulty seeing objects clearly or perceiving colors.
• Increased eye floaters and/or flashes.
• Sudden loss of vision.

Why Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for optical coherence tomography (OCT)?

Tender Palm Hospital, owned by doctors, is renowned for attracting the most skilled professionals in the country, with the finest neurologist and neurosurgeons specialized in optical coherence tomography (OCT). Tender Palm stands out as the premier Neurology hospital in Lucknow, India. Boasting cutting-edge infrastructure and advanced technology, Tender Palm ensures top-notch medical care for its patients.

To seek an expert consultation

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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