Introducing the Optos Scan, also called the Optomap® Ultra-widefield retinal imaging device!
We recommend that our patients include an optos scan as part of your eye exam today.
The Optomap ultra-widefield digital retinal imaging device helps you and your eye doctor make informed decisions about your eye health and overall well-being. Combining your eye doctor's expertise and optomap technology, optomap brings your eye exam to life.
What is your retina?
The retina is a delicate lining at the back of the eye similar to film in a camera.
Light strikes the retina through the lens in your eye and produces a picture which is then sent to the brain, enabling you to see.
Why is a healthy retina important?
An unhealthy retina cannot send clear signals to your brain which can result in impaired vision or blindness. Most retinal conditions and other diseases can be treated successfully with early detection.
Without a comprehensive eye exam, you may not be aware of a potential problem. You may see clearly, and because the retina has no nerve endings, you may not feel any pain, a symptom which may otherwise prompt you to see your doctor.
Early Detection is Vital
What can happen to the retina?
Your retina is the only place in the body where blood vessels can be seen directly. This means, in addition to eye conditions, signs of other diseases (for example, stroke, heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes) can be seen in the retina. Early detection is essential so treatments can be administered.
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR)
Diabetes affects the eyes and the kidneys and is a leading cause of blindness. Retinopathy occurs when diabetes damages the tiny blood vessels inside the retina.
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
The center of the retina (the macula) can become diseased as we get older. This results in alterations to our fine central vision making daily activities such as driving and reading difficult.
Glaucoma (Increased Eye Pressure)
Glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve and almost always develops without symptoms.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Increased pressure can result in changes to blood vessels in the eye, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease (stroke or heart disease).
How does your eye doctor normally examine the retina?
Examining the retina is challenging. Your eye doctor looks through your pupil to examine the back of your eye. Traditional viewing methods can be effective, but difficult to perform and are carried out manually without any digital record.
How does the optomap help?
The optomap ultra-wide digital retinal imaging device captures more than 80% of your retina in one image. Traditional methods typically reveal only 10-15% of your retina at one time.
The unique optomap ultra-widefield view enhances your eye doctor’s ability to detect even the earliest sign of disease that appears on your retina. Seeing most of the retina at once allows your eye doctor more time to review your images and educate you about your eye health. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the power of optomap as a diagnostic tool.
Do all eye doctors have an optomap ultra-widefield digital retinal imaging system?
Optomap is a standard of care for evaluating eye health in this office and millions of people worldwide have benefitted from optomap.
How often should I have an Optos Scan?
Your doctor will advise you based on your individual circumstances, but the general recommendation is that you have an optos scan every time you have an eye exam. This will ensure you have a digital record of your retinal health on file which can be compared for changes over time.
Should my children have Optos Scan too?
Many vision problems begin at an early age, so it’s important for children to receive proper eye care from the time they are infants.
Will I need to be dilated and does it hurt?
An optos scan takes only seconds to perform, is not painful, and typically does not require dilation. However, your eye doctor may decide dilation is still needed.
For more information visit Optomap’s Website: https://www.optomap.com/