OCT Scans
An OCT scan enables diagnosis of disease early, often before symptoms are noticable.
OCT - Ocular Coherence Tomography - is an advanced eye scan for people of all ages. Similar to ultrasound, OCT uses light rather than sound waves to illustrate the different layers that make up the tissue at the back of your eye. It shows an optometrist what’s happening beneath the surface, showing the warning signs of disease earlier than a regular eye exam.
An OCT scanner and computer on a patient table.
As well as a 3D visualisation, an OCT scan also produces a photograph of the retina.
What can OCT scans check for?
Age-related macular degeneration
Macular degeneration causes the gradual breakdown of the macular (the central part of the eye). OCT not only identifies this condition and it’s type (wet or dry) but also monitors its progress, including the effect of ongoing treatment. Unfortunately, the risk of generation increases with age and it is the most common cause of vision loss in individuals over the age of 50.
Diabetes
Diabetic retinopathy is a major cause of visual impairment among adults. Here in the UK, more than two million people have been identified as having diabetes. OCT examination enables early detection, which greatly improved the success rate of treatment.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve at the point where it leaves the eye. Recent statistics suggest the some form of glaucoma affects around two in every 100 people over the age of 40. The danger with chronic glaucoma is that there is no pain and your eyesight will seem unchanged, but damage is still occurring. An OCT will confirm whether you are at risk, or what stage of glaucoma you may have.
Macular Holes
The macular is the part of the retina which is responsible for our sharp, detailed central vision. There are many causes of macular holes. One is a vitreous detachment, leading to a tear. Extreme exposure to sunlight can also cause a macular hole to develop.
Vitreous detachments
Vitreomacular traction can clear be diagnosed through OCT, providing invaluable information about the vitreous and retinal surface of the eye. As people get older the vitreous jelly in our eyeball can change. It can become less firm, causing ‘pulling’ of the retinal surface.
FAQs
Are OCTs expensive?
All our private appointments and monthly care plans include an OCT scan at each sight test. You can find a full listing of our fees here. We charge £39 for OCT scans if your sight test is funded by the NHS.
What do OCT scans feel like?
OCT scans are non-invasive and painless. You’ll just see a brief flash of light during the scan.
Are OCT scans safe?
Yes. OCTs are do not interfere with pacemakers or hearing aids and can be carried out on expectant mothers.
How often do I need to have an OCT scan?
If you’re over 25, we would recommend having an OCT scan with each sight test. Eye disease can start to develop at different times in different people.