Angio OCT (OCT angiography) is an advanced OCT technique that visualises blood flow in retinal and choroidal vessels without the need for dye injections. It combines structural and vascular information in a single scan.
How It Works
Multiple OCT scans are acquired rapidly at the same location and compared to detect motion from red blood cells.
- Software constructs en‑face and cross‑sectional maps of the superficial and deep retinal plexuses and choriocapillaris.
- Areas of non‑perfusion, capillary dropout, or abnormal neovascular networks can be highlighted.
- The scan is non‑invasive and suitable for patients who cannot tolerate fluorescein angiography.
- Image acquisition typically takes only a few seconds per eye.
Clinical Uses
Angio OCT is valuable in many macular and retinal vascular conditions.
- It helps diagnose and monitor neovascular AMD, diabetic retinopathy, vein occlusions, and macular telangiectasia.
- Microvascular changes can be followed over time to guide treatment frequency.
- The absence of injected dye reduces systemic risks and patient discomfort.
- Limitations such as motion artefact and reduced field of view are considered when interpreting results.
