Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-contact imaging technique that produces cross-sectional scans of the retina and other ocular structures. It uses light waves to generate high-resolution slices, similar in concept to ultrasound but with much finer detail.
What OCT shows
OCT can reveal fluid, traction, thinning and other structural changes at the macula and around the optic nerve. Quantitative measurements allow clinicians to track progression or response to treatment over time.
- Widely used in macular disease, glaucoma and pre-operative assessment
- Quick and painless, usually completed within a few minutes
- Results depend on scan quality and patient fixation
- Findings are interpreted alongside clinical examination and other tests
