What is an OCT?

 

As part of an eye exam at SK Eyecare, our techs may provide you the option of performing an ultrasound of your eye or one of our eye doctors may order an OCT scan as part of your comprehensive eye exam.

It sounds quite techy, but what exactly is an OCT and what makes it so important?

 
 

What Is an OCT Scan?

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that creates detailed, cross-sectional images of the retina - the layer of tissue in the back of the eye that contains photoreceptors - cells that detect light, convert them into brain signals, to then give us our VISION.

 
 

The OCT is analogous to an ultrasound except instead of using sound, it illuminates the retina with light.

As the light bounces back through the tissue, it measures the reflections and light scatters, and then converts the information into an impressive sculpture, creating for us detailed 3D images of the retina and all its layers.

 
 

Why Would SK Eyecare Recommend an OCT for me?

There are several reasons why you should have an OCT done as part of your eye care.

Take a look at the Top 6:

  • Screening for eye conditions such as glaucoma, UV damage, a freckle (or nevus), or a retinal tear or detachment

  • The patient may show “red flag” signs (what the doctor sees) or symptoms (what the patient feels) that warrant a scan to rule out a hole, tear, or fluid buildup in the retina

  • Monitoring the progression of an existing eye condition such as age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) or diabetic retinopathy

  • Evaluating the effectiveness of treatment for an existing eye condition

  • Screening to detect early signs of eye conditions in high-risk patients such as those with anatomical factors, high prescriptions, or a family history of eye disease

  • Screening to detect early signs of retinopathy or maculopathy in patients with systemic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or autoimmune conditions.

 

Be sure to let your SK optometrist know if you are experiencing blurry vision, floaters, light flashes, or trouble seeing in low light settings to determine if an OCT might be a helpful tool in maintaining your eye health.

 
Syeda Kutub