An Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scan is a painless and no invasive way to examine your eyes. The scanner uses light waves to create colour-coded images of the eye’s layers. The scanner uses infared light to create a 3D view of the inside of the eye.
OCT Eye Scanning Technology and what it means for your eye health
Introduced in 1991 by a physician-scientist called DavidHuang in the USA, this technology is now a reliable tool for diagnosing,monitoring and treating a range of eye conditions including:
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic eye disease
- Macular degeneration (part of the retina that controls central vision)
- Retinal detachment
- Plus many more rare conditions
What does an OCT Scan involve?
You’ll be asked to sit in front of the scanner and rest your chin on a pad. This chin support will ensure you keep still during the scan. Our trained operator will make sure you are settled and comfortable before starting the scan. You may be surprised by a flash of light at the start of the scan but thereafter you probably won’t even know it’s happening. Usually the scan will take around 5 to 10 minutes.
The results can be reviewed immediately and our trained operator can discuss the results there and then.
We’ve prepared a list of the most frequently asked questions about OCT Eye Scanning.
Is an OCT scan worth having?
We recommend OCT scans for people aged 25 or over, who want to know more about their eye health. We also recommend it for those who have diabetes, glaucoma, or have a family history of eye disease. Even if your vision and eye seem healthy, we still recommend an OCT scan with every eye test.
What is the difference between OCT and a normal eye test?
The OCT scan is similar to a CT (Computed Tomography) scan of internal organs, except it doesn't use X-rays. Instead, a beam of light is used to rapidly scan the eye and generate an image without any invasion.
What is the difference between a retinal scan and OCT scan?
The images taken by OCT are quite different than those taken by digital retinal imaging, and are also effective in detecting different symptoms. What an OCT scan allows an optometrist to do is to observe the different layers of the retina and allows them to determine the thickness of the retina.
Can you drive after an OCT scan?
Some patients may experience light sensitivity after the scan. You will still be able to drive home after the exam. We recommend that you bring a pair of sunglasses to help with any post exam light sensitivity.
How often should I have a scan?
It’s a good idea to have multiple OCT exams over several years. Doing so helps your optometrist stay vigilant for any new conditions that develop between visits. It also allows them to notice whether your retina is thickening as you age, which can cause distortions in your vision.
If a patient has been diagnosed with any of the conditions above or any other condition they may need additional OCT scans to monitor the progress of their disease. In some cases, OCT scans can also give your optometrist information about the effectiveness of various treatments.
How much does an OCT scan cost?
Please contact us regarding the cost and possible exemptions.
Eyecare Heston has been serving the optometrist needs of the Heston, Hounslow and Southall community since 1993. Please give us a call if you have any questions or you would like to book an appointment.
