Optical Coherence Tomography, or OCT, is a non-invasive imaging technology used to capture detailed, cross-sectional images of the structures inside your eye. Using light waves rather than radiation, an OCT scanner produces high-resolution images of the retina, macula, optic nerve, and — depending on the scan — the front (anterior) segment of the eye, including the cornea. It works much like an ultrasound, but uses light instead of sound to achieve much finer detail, essentially creating a layer-by-layer map of eye tissue.
How OCT Imaging Is Used
OCT gives your eye doctor a clear view of tissue layers that can't be seen with a standard eye exam alone. It is commonly used to evaluate the retina and macula for conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and macular edema, and to examine the optic nerve for signs associated with glaucoma. Because OCT can detect subtle changes in tissue thickness and structure, it is also useful for monitoring how a condition changes over time or how it is responding to treatment.
What to Expect During Your Scan
An OCT scan is quick, painless, and does not require any needles, dye, or contact with the eye. You'll be asked to sit still and look at a fixation target while the machine captures images, and your pupils may or may not need to be dilated beforehand depending on the type of scan and what your provider is evaluating. Most scans take just a few minutes per eye, and results can typically be reviewed with your doctor during the same visit.
Why We Use OCT Imaging
At our practice, OCT imaging is part of our approach to thorough, proactive eye care. It allows our providers to detect changes in the retina and optic nerve early, often before they would be noticeable through a standard exam or affect your vision, and to track your eye health over time with objective, repeatable measurements. If you have questions about whether an OCT scan is part of your upcoming visit, our team is happy to explain what it involves.