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Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

We at Tyrrells and Embery pride ourselves in giving the very best in eye care, as we believe sight is the most precious of our five senses.  We understand that investment in the latest technology is of paramount importance and we continually strive to be at the forefront of technology and service.

We pride ourselves in offering every patient of ours the opportunity to have the very latest 3D retinal scan using OCT technology.

Using the OCT we have the potential of picking up abnormalities at an earlier stage, usually affording you better treatment options.

OCT is especially useful for anybody who is worried about or has a family history of:

  • Macula Degeneration

  • Glaucoma

  • Diabetic Retinopathy

  • Macula Hole

  • Optic nerve disease

  • Vitreous Detachments

  • Floaters

  • Anyone who wants ultimate peace of mind regarding the health of their eye

We were one of the first practices in this area that invested in this technology to ensure our patients had the very best in eye care to help protect their vision now and in the future.  As we have been utilising OCT technology in our practice since 2012, we have built up a wealth of experience and insight in how best to get the most out of this technology.

This test is not part of the NHS sight test and there is an additional charge of £29 but its benefits are obvious.

What is OCT?

OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) is the latest in imaging technology to help ascertain the health of your eyes and has until recently only been available to hospital eye clinics. OCT is an advanced imaging technique for the eyes, giving a three-dimensional, cross sectional scan of the retina.

It is a simple, non-invasive and quick test to perform.  The patient sits in front of a special type of camera and scans are taken of the structures inside the eye

FAQ 1 - Is the OCT the same as taking a 'photo' of the inside of the eye?

            No.  The 3D-OCT scans the surface and also BELOW the surface of the              retina.  This allows us to visualise, in high resolution, the different layers              of the retina which is not possible with the normal ‘fundus photo’.

The unique way the image is formed means for the first time we can actually see below the surface of the retina and view the microscopic layers beneath.

The amazing detail allows us to detect abnormalities earlier that are not apparent during a standard eye examination.

The OCT can create a contour map of the Optic Nerve, measure the retinal nerve fibre layer thickness, corneal thickness and anterior chamber angle.  All of these structures are especially helpful in the early diagnosis and progression of glaucoma and other eye disorders.

The OCT can also identify macula disease, including macular degeneration, both wet or dry, and also monitor its progress.

3 ways to help protect and maintain healthy eyes:

  • Have regular check-ups including the 3D-OCT scan to monitor any changes

  • Protect your eyes against damage from UV light.  When buying sunglasses make sure they have adequate UV protection

  • Eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly Lutein and Zeaxanthin, if there is a family history of macula disease.  These are found in green leafy vegetables and in yellow fruits

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