Optical Coherence Tomography
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a diagnostic imaging technique that is used to map and measure the structure of different parts of the eye. It uses low-intensity light to generate cross-sectional images of either the front of the eye (cornea, iris, anterior chamber, angle) or the back of the eye (macula, optic nerve, retina). OCT is a quick, non-invasive and non-contact procedure that provides highly magnified and detailed images of the structures being assessed.
OCT may be performed without dilating the pupil but sometimes pupil dilation is needed to get better quality images. A beam of light is passed onto the eye from an OCT system and the images captured within a matter of seconds. Results can be assessed immediately.
OCT is used in the diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy (damage of retina in diabetics), age-related macular degeneration (deterioration of the centre of the retina), macular oedema (accumulation of fluid within the retina) and other retinal disorders.
