OCT Examination

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a revolutionary method that painlessly and precisely reveals the internal structural changes of the eye. This examination provides immediate insight into the eye's health, allowing for early diagnosis and the start of effective treatment. Learn how an OCT exam can help preserve your vision and overall eye health.

What is an OCT Examination?

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is one of the most innovative tools in ophthalmic diagnostics, bringing significant advancements in the examination of the optic nerve, retina, and macula. This non-invasive, completely painless procedure is quick and provides microscopic resolution images of the internal structures of the eye, which is crucial for the early detection and treatment of eye diseases.

The OCT technology works by emitting coherent light waves that reflect off the internal tissues of the eye. The reflected light forms high-resolution images, allowing doctors to see the layers of the retina, optic nerve, and macula in detail. This enables the identification of conditions like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD) much earlier than with traditional methods.

OCT plays a crucial role in ophthalmic care as it can detect even the smallest anomalies that may not be visible with other techniques. It allows eye doctors to track the progression of diseases and apply targeted treatments immediately.

When is an OCT Exam Recommended?

OCT is a vital tool in ophthalmic diagnostics, widely recommended by specialists for detecting specific conditions and diseases. At Újbuda Medical Center, this examination is an essential part of eye examinations and is particularly recommended in the following cases:

Suspected Retinal Abnormalities

If abnormalities or changes in the retina are suspected, an OCT exam can identify even the smallest structural problems, which is essential for early diagnosis and effective treatment strategies.

Chronic Conditions like Diabetes and High Blood Pressure

For patients with chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, an OCT exam is strongly recommended as these conditions can damage the retina and other parts of the eye. The OCT allows eye specialists to monitor changes in the eye caused by these diseases and implement appropriate treatments.

Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Macular Degeneration (AMD)

For those suffering from glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or age-related macular degeneration, the OCT exam is especially important. These conditions tend to remain undetected until significant vision loss occurs. However, with OCT, these diseases can be detected early, allowing treatment to start much sooner and preventing severe complications.

The OCT Examination Process

OCT, or Optical Coherence Tomography, is a cutting-edge ophthalmic procedure that enables detailed imaging of the eye's internal structure. Thanks to modern equipment at Újbuda Medical Center, the exam is quick, comfortable, and completely painless.

Preparing for the Exam

Before the OCT exam, patients receive thorough information about the process to ensure they feel calm and prepared. An ophthalmologist may apply special dilating drops to enlarge the pupils, allowing maximum light penetration into the eye. Pupil dilation takes a few minutes and the effects last for a few hours, causing temporary blurred vision.

The Examination Procedure

The OCT machine emits special light beams that reflect off the internal structures of the eye. During the exam, the patient focuses on a fixed point while the machine captures detailed images of the retina and other eye parts. The technology creates high-resolution, layered images, enabling doctors to make an accurate diagnosis.

The entire process is very quick, usually taking only 5–10 minutes. The machine is touchless, so the patient experiences no discomfort. The images are available immediately, allowing the doctor to assess the results right after the exam.

Why is the OCT Exam Special?

OCT technology's unique ability to display the internal structure of the eye with micrometer precision makes it indispensable in ophthalmic diagnostics. At Újbuda Medical Center, OCT exams enable the early detection of eye diseases like macular degeneration or initial-stage glaucoma, ensuring the best possible treatment outcomes.

What Can OCT Detect?

OCT is one of the most precise methods in ophthalmic diagnostics, offering a detailed view of the eye's internal structure. With modern OCT equipment at Újbuda Medical Center, the images generated during the exam are clear and detailed, providing critical information about eye health, essential for early detection of eye diseases and creating effective treatment plans. Here are some key conditions and abnormalities that OCT can identify:

1. Macular Degeneration

The macula, the central part of the retina, is responsible for sharp vision. OCT can detect early signs of macular degeneration, including wet and dry types. It reveals fluid buildup beneath the macula or changes in the retinal pigment epithelium, which can lead to vision loss.

2. Diabetic Retinopathy

OCT can also detect retinal damage caused by diabetes, known as diabetic retinopathy. The exam can reveal microaneurysms, retinal swelling, and small hemorrhages, which are typical symptoms of diabetic retinopathy.

3. Glaucoma

Glaucoma, which causes damage to the optic nerve and can lead to blindness, can be detected early with OCT. The technology measures the thickness of the optic nerve head and retinal nerve fiber layer, which thins as the disease progresses.

4. Anterior Segment Abnormalities

OCT can also examine the front part of the eye. It provides detailed images of the cornea and iris, helping diagnose conditions like keratoconus or corneal dystrophies.

OCT Examination in Budapest

At Újbuda Medical Center, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of eye care to every patient. With our OCT examination, you can be confident that your eyes are in the best hands. Visit us and experience the difference that high-quality eye care can make for you and your loved ones.

Don’t let eye problems affect your quality of life. The OCT exam helps in the early detection of eye diseases and ensures timely treatment. Book an appointment online or call our main number at +36 1 550 7 550, where we are ready to assist with further information and appointment scheduling.