OCT eye test

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a type of eye exam we offer at eyesite, which provides a detailed, 3D scan of the tissue lining the back of the eye. Working in a similar way to an ultrasound, the OCT eye test emits light waves to create high definition pictures of the structural layers beneath the retina. This allows us to give patients of all ages a highly advanced eye examination, and aids the early detection and treatment of a wide range of eye conditions.

OCT eye test explained

This state-of-the-art 3D technology takes 128 individual scans of the back of the eye, and creates a detailed picture of either the optic nerve (the nerve that sends a signal to the brain) or the macula (central vision area). Every distinctive layer of the retina can be seen using this instrument. Our qualified optometrists then use this photographic information to map and measure the thickness of these individual layers. This is what helps us to identify, diagnose and provide treatment for eye conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease.

OCT eye tests are non-invasive and completely painless. They are quick to perform – lasting around 5 to 10 minutes – and nothing touches the eye.

What conditions can OCT diagnose?

There are a wide range of eye conditions that OCT eye tests can help to diagnose. These include:

• Glaucoma
• Macular hole
• Macular edema
• Macular pucker
• Central serous retinopathy
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Preretinal membranes
• Age-related macular degeneration

Optical Coherence Tomography can also be used to assess disorders of the optic nerve. If any changes occur to the fibres in this nerve (often caused by conditions such as glaucoma), the OCT exam can help your optometrist to pinpoint these and recommend suitable treatment.

As the OCT eye test works by emitting light waves, it is not effective for diagnosing any eye condition that interferes with light passing through the eye, such as cataracts.

Book an OCT eye test

At Eyesite we offer Optical Coherence Tomography imaging to patients of all ages as part of our Introductory and Advanced Gold Eye Examinations.

To find out more about these exams, please see our Eye Examination Services page.