Retinal Imaging
Eye examinations have advanced over the years and one of the most important changes is the inclusion of advanced retinal imaging. Being able to accurately check your eye health as well as test your vision is essential for a comprehensive eye exam. This is why we’ve invested in Optomap Ultra-Widefield Imaging and the Spectralis 4D OCT Scan – the latest in retinal imaging technology.
How does retinal imaging work?
Not so long ago, traditional retinal photography was the only option available for optometrists to examine the back of your eye (your retina). However, this only shows a 45° view, which means your optometrist only sees 15% of your retina.
This is why we use the Optomap ultra-widefield scan, which captures and produces a 200° panoramic digital image that covers up to 87% of your retina in less than half a second. That’s not all – the Optomap can also display a six-image overview, for unrivalled clarity and pinpoint accuracy when it comes to analysing the back of your eye.
Our Optomap ultra-widefield technology is complemented by the Heidelberg Spectralis 4D OCT scan. This OCT scan is the equivalent of a CAT scan for your eyes, allowing us to produce 3D images that show a cross-section of the layers which make up your retina, allowing our optometrists to, quite literally, see beneath the surface. What sets this scan apart from other 3D scans is the additional fourth dimension, enabling us to monitor changes over the years to 1/1000 of a millimetre in exactly the same place during every visit.
Both scans are quick, easy, painless, and non-invasive. All you have to do is simply place your head on the chin rest in front of the machine. Within seconds, all images will be taken, producing instant results that we can analyse and discuss with you.
Your results and scan images will be stored on our computer system alongside your usual patient records.
Why is retinal imaging so important?
The fact that one in two cases of sight loss can be avoided through early detection and timely treatment, means the more we can see of the back of your eye, the more likely it is that we’ll be able to pick up any signs of eye disease and provide a rapid referral for further tests and treatment if necessary. Most eye conditions can be treated much more successfully if they are caught in the early stages, including age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetes.
Having regular scans also means that we’ll be able to compare your results to any previous records, so we can keep track of even the smallest changes for your peace of mind.
Safe eye exams
These scans can also be performed at a safe distance. This the best way for us to accurately assess your eye health without needing to get into very close proximity to you, which is why we recommend the scans as part of our eye exam for both adults and children. These are not covered by the NHS, but the Optomap scan is available at a reduced price for children, and adults can join our eyecare plan from just £10 per month to benefit from unlimited Optomap and OCT scans.