Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
OCT is a safe, painless and non-invasive way to obtain a detailed image of the retina or optic nerve. Until the advent of this technology, doctors had no way to easily visualize the different layers of the retina on a microscopic level. Because of the amazing detail provided by the OCT, we now have the capability to make earlier and more accurate diagnoses. This leads to more timely treatment and better care for our patients. Images from the OCT allow for the early detection of glaucoma as well as monitoring for changes after the diagnosis of glaucoma has been made. It is also provides critical information when assessing retinal problems associated with diabetes and macular degeneration.
Digital Retinal Camera
Sometimes a picture is truly worth a thousand words! Our office is equipped with the latest advancements in technology, including digital imaging. By taking a high-resolution digital photograph, we are able to show you exactly what we see when we look at your eye under high magnification. This photo documentation can be used for comparison at later exams.
Visual Field Analyzer
A visual field test measures how much peripheral or side vision you have. This test will detect any loss of peripheral vision and provide a detailed map of the extent and depth of that loss, which is helpful in diagnosing diseases such as glaucoma or macular degeneration and in monitoring for drug toxicity caused by some common medications. It is also performed when a patient has unexplained visual disturbances or vision loss. In these cases, it may uncover a pituitary tumor or other disease process requiring prompt attention.
Digital Refraction
With Digital Refraction, we test how well you can see an eye chart using a giant pair of glasses called a phoropter. This is a test in which you are the only one who knows the answers. You will compare different lenses and tell the doctor which lenses provide clearer vision. The digital system offers detailed comparisons and at the touch of a button we can easily compare your old prescription lenses with the new ones.
The doctor depends on your answers to get the Digital Refraction examination right. Sometimes it can be frustrating as it can be difficult to tell which lens gives you the clearest vision, but that is a sign we are getting really close to the ideal choice for you.
Macular Densitometer
Macular Pigment protects the macula from free-radical damage caused by blue wavelength light. A risk factor for developing AMD is low Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD). There is now a device called the Densitometer that measures MPOD, the relative health of your macula. The macula is the sight-sensing center in the back of the eye.
The three major components of the tissue are the carotenoid pigments Meso-zeaxanthin, Zeaxanthin and Lutein. On the surface, one’s macula may appear healthy. However, if the levels of the carotenoid pigments are low, this may predispose one to developing AMD. By measuring MPOD, we can now identify at risk patients. Low MPOD is a modifiable risk factor for the development of AMD. Risk reduction can begin now, even if you are in your twenties