Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), in Visit Clinic

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to produce high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina, optic nerve, cornea and anterior eye. It's used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, retinal detachments and macular holes, guide treatment decisions, and track disease progression or response to therapy.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) uses low-coherence interferometry with near-infrared light to measure the echo time delay and intensity of backscattered or reflected light from tissue. By scanning and analyzing these depth-resolved reflections, OCT constructs high-resolution, cross-sectional images of microscopic tissue structure. Axial resolution depends on light-source bandwidth. It is noninvasive and widely used in ophthalmology, cardiology, and dermatology.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) detects many eye conditions including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, macular holes, epiretinal membranes, central serous retinopathy, retinal detachment, and glaucoma (optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer thinning). It also images anterior-segment problems (corneal disease, narrow-angle glaucoma) and is used intravascularly to assess coronary artery disease and stent-related issues.

No — OCT is a painless, non‑invasive scan that uses light to image the retina. It doesn't touch the eye or involve injections. You may feel temporary discomfort from bright lights or from pupil‑dilating drops (mild stinging, blurred vision, light sensitivity) if used. The test is quick, lasting only minutes, and suitable for most patients.

OCT (optical coherence tomography) is a non‑invasive, safe imaging test that uses light, not radiation. Risks are minimal: occasional discomfort from bright scanning lights, and if pupils are dilated, temporary blurred vision and light sensitivity; very rarely an allergic reaction to dilating drops. Limitations include poor image quality from eye movement or dense cataract, which can lead to inconclusive results.

Normal OCT results show well-defined, intact retinal layers with a smooth foveal contour and retinal thickness within expected age- and eye-specific ranges. There is no macular or subretinal fluid, cysts, or retinal thinning/atrophy, and no vitreomacular traction. For optic nerve scans, RNFL and ganglion cell complex thickness fall within normal reference limits, with no signs of glaucoma-related thinning.