OCT Retinal Imaging - Explained

The OCT is a non-invasive test that allows your optometrist to take high resolution scans of your retina, optic nerve, cornea, and iris. With a cross section of a retina being no more than 0.5mm thick, our high definition Nidek 3000 OCT is able to scan down to 4 microns or 0.004mm. This high resolution scan provides our eye doctors with a detailed view of your eye structures, and better insight into your eye health.

Although the images produced by an OCT look like x-rays, they are not. OCT imaging is safe and can be routinely performed on patients of any age. The OCT images are produced using eye safe infrared light, which causes no damage to the imaged tissue.

OCT imaging is a game changer in the eye care industry. This test provides greater insight into many eye diseases such as: glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, retinal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, and numerous other eye conditions. This instrument is the gold standard for monitoring the retinal health of patients on medications such as Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine), a common medication used to treat malaria and arthritis. For patients with a family history of glaucoma, OCT imaging is used to detect early signs or subtle changes in optic nerve health. This results in earlier treatment options or peace of mind knowing things are stable.

OCT imaging may be covered by Alberta Health Care one time per year if your optometrist deems it medically necessary for the diagnosis, documentation or monitoring of an eye condition. If additional OCT imaging is recommended by your doctor, or you choose to add OCT imaging to your routine eye exam to better understand your eye health regular exam fees will apply as noted above. The staff and doctors at Stonewire Optometry will explain all costs prior to performing any additional testing.

Cost: $65.00 - Imaging costs may be covered by Alberta Health Care*
Frequency: As required based on risks or diagnosis