The retina is a group of cells that is essential for vision. The skilled team of professionals at Eye Q Optique uses digital retinal imaging and optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans to evaluate the retina and look for signs of disease. To find out more about digital retinal imaging and OCT scans, call the office in Buffalo Grove or the Tri-Taylor or Near West Side neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, or schedule an appointment online today.

What are digital retinal imaging and OCT scans?

Digital retinal imaging and optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans are diagnostic tools the doctors at Eye Q Optique use to evaluate your retina. 

Your retina is in the back of your eye and is essential for vision. When light enters your eye, it hits the retina. Then, the nerve cell receptors in the retina send the light information to your brain for interpretation.

Digital retinal imaging

Digital retinal imaging involves taking a picture of your retina, allowing your optometrist to see its structure and function. It includes images of your optic disk and the blood vessels in the retina. 

Digital retinal imaging also allows the team to see where the light hits the retina, which helps determine your vision needs. 

OCT scans

OCT scans take cross-sectional images of your retina. The imaging scan allows your optometrist at Eye Q Optique to see the layers of your retina.

Why do I need digital retinal imaging and OCT scans?

Your optometrist at Eye Q Optique explains why you need digital retinal imaging and OCT scans. The team may perform these imaging tests during your routine eye exam to screen for health conditions that affect the retina, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration.

The team may also recommend digital retinal imaging and OCT scans for diabetic eye care. People with diabetes are at greater risk of developing conditions that affect the retina, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

What happens during digital retinal imaging and OCT scans?

Before your digital retinal imaging and OCT scan, your optometrist may dilate your eyes with special eye drops. The medication takes about 20 minutes to work.

Once your eyes fully dilate, they have you sit in the optometry chair and place your head on a support system that keeps it steady. Then, your optician turns on the imaging devices to get the pictures. Imaging and scanning take about 6 minutes. 

For comprehensive eye care from a highly skilled team, call Eye Q Optique or schedule an appointment online today.