Widefield retinal imaging, sometimes called ultra-widefield imaging, captures a single photograph of a much larger area of the retina than conventional fundus photography — often reaching the far peripheral retina in one image, without requiring the eye to be repositioned for multiple shots. This gives our providers a much more complete view of the retina in one quick capture.
Why the Periphery Matters
Many retinal conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears and detachments, and some inherited or inflammatory retinal diseases, can begin or show early signs in the peripheral retina — areas that are easy to miss with a standard exam or a conventional photo centered on the macula and optic nerve. Widefield imaging helps our providers document and monitor these outer regions of the retina more thoroughly.
What to Expect
The imaging process is fast and non-contact. You'll be positioned in front of the camera and asked to look at a fixation target while the device captures the image, usually within a few seconds per eye. Some widefield systems can capture useful images without dilation, while others are used alongside dilated exams for the clearest possible view — your provider will let you know what to expect for your specific visit.
How We Use It
At our practice, widefield retinal imaging is used as part of comprehensive eye exams to document the health of the retina, support early detection of peripheral changes, and give us a clear reference image to compare against at future visits. It's a valuable complement to other retinal imaging tools we use, helping build a more complete picture of your eye health over time.