OCT 3D Retinal Scanning Technology
This is the next generation technology for imaging the internal structures of the eye. The OCT is a state of the art scanner that creates a sort of optical ultrasound 3D image of the inside of the eye. This unique way of forming the image means that for the first time we can actually see below the surface of the retina and view the microscopic layers beneath. The retina is the light sensitive area at the back of your eye, equivalent to film in a traditional camera and it has 10 layers. Other equipment, commonly found at most opticians only allow a view of the top layer.
This scan is easy to conduct, is simple and painless, and only takes a few seconds to complete. It is suitable for people of all ages and it can pick up any problems at a much earlier stage, usually allowing you better treatment options and a better visual result.
Visual Reference & Measuring
Any areas that may be unusual can then be measured and later repeat scans can be lined up with the original so that changes are monitored in an accurate way. It can also used to differentiate between wet and dry types of macular degeneration, which can help to decide whether treatment may be possible. Many other eye conditions can also be diagnosed with this equipment and of course it can also confirm that all is well and the eye is healthy.
In summary this new instrument is very versatile and for the first time allows us to check the health of your eyes beneath the surface of the retina, giving the earliest possible indication of your eye’s health. Used together with the Optomap wide-field retinal scanner, we believe this will greatly enhance our ability to ensure the well-being of your eyes and visual system.
Specialised Scanning
There are 18 scans that can potentially be performed with OCT technology. At Hammond Opticians we believe in offering the very best eyecare and recommend that everyone should have an initial Complete OCT assessment to measure each of these parameters. These will form the baseline figures and will be used as a reference from which future readings will be compared. This will allow us the greatest opportunity to confirm your eye’s health by detecting any evidence of change at the earliest stage.
Using the information we measure during the Complete OCT Consultation our expert optometrists will help identify which scans are the most important for you as an individual, based on your age, health and family history. These scans will then be repeated as part of a Platinum Eye Examination at your next visit.
Macula Scans
Optic Nerve Scans
Cornea and Anterior Scans
These scans show the central area of the retina called the macula. This is the most delicate part of the eye and offers the most sensitive vision. It can be seen in 3D and cross-section.
- Macular degeneration
- Diabetes
- Family history of macular disease
- Smokers
- Short-sighted people
- Those with unexplained visual problems
- People with flashes &/or floaters
- Any loss of vision
- In cases of head or eye injuries
- Other retinal or macular disorders e.g. Epiretinal Membrane and macular hole
These scans show the optic disc which connects the eye to the visual centres in the brain and this is vital for maintaining healthy vision. It can be seen in 3D, cross-section and G-cell mapping (the earliest indicator of glaucoma)
- Glaucoma
- People with a family history of glaucoma
- High eye pressures
- Neurological conditions e.g. MS
- Headaches
- People with unexpectedly poor vision
- Optic nerve disease e.g. optic neuritis
- Other optic nerve disorders e.g. Optic Disc Drusen
These scans show the corneal thickness and clarity as well as the patency of the eye’s drainage channels.
- People who have closed-angle glaucoma
- People with small eyes &/or who are long-sighted
- History of eye pain &/or headaches associated with blurry vision
- People with a family history of glaucoma
- Contact lens wearers
- Laser eye treatment – pre-surgery and post-surgery
- People with high eye pressures
- People of South Asian descent
