What to Expect at an Optomap Retinal Exam

Comprehensive eye exams involve evaluating the retina. To examine the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, doctors often need to dilate the pupils, which allows them to view the retina effectively. 
 

Traditionally, eye specialists use eye drops to dilate the pupils. The drops are often irritating for most patients. They can cause eye sensitivity and blurry vision. To avoid this, doctors use Optomap technology.
 

Optomap Retinal Exam 

An Optomap retinal exam uses technology to assess the health and condition of the inner eye. Through retinal imaging, eye doctors can instantly assess up to 80% of the retina. The imagining equipment captures a wide and detailed view, allowing the doctor to examine the retina more closely. Clear images enable doctors to detect or diagnose issues faster and more accurately. The exam does not require dilation of the pupils, making it convenient for patients.  
 

What to Expect at an Optomap Exam

An Optomap retinal exam is quick and easy. The doctor will adjust the scanning equipment to ensure proper recording of your retinal images. The doctor will instruct you to lean forward, facing the imaging equipment with your eyes open. The doctor will press a button to begin the scan using laser light.
 

High-resolution images appear on a screen as the camera captures the action. The entire process usually takes less than a minute for each eye. Doctors can use several Optos machines to capture different views of the retina. 
 

Benefits of an Optomap Exam 

Optomap retinal imaging has several benefits:
 

• It produces in-depth imaging and more details than pupil dilation. 
• The exam is noninvasive, quick, and painless.
• It can help detect various eye diseases. 
• It is an effective tool for pediatric exams. 
• The captured images can be saved for future comparisons. 
• It can help doctors to detect retinal lesions. 

After completion of the exam, you have the opportunity to examine the images, and you can discuss the results with the doctor. You have information that will help you choose treatment. 
 

Drawbacks of Optomap

Optomap retinal exams are effective and convenient but have some drawbacks. The exams are more costly than traditional pupil dilation, and the cost is not often covered by insurance. Availability is limited, and not all eye care providers provide the service. If the imaging detects an issue, pupil dilation may be necessary for further analysis. Patients will still require dilation to assess conditions involving the optic nerve. 
 

What an Optomap Exam Can Detect

Optomap imaging can help to detect various eye conditions. It can be effective for diagnosing diseases such as:
 

• Diabetic retinopathy
• Age-related macular degeneration
• Uveitis
• Retinal detachment
• Posterior vitreous detachment
• Retinal dystrophies
• Retinal vein occlusion
• Tumors and lesions

Pediatric eye doctors can use the exam to detect retinal disorders like Coats disease. Your eye doctor can help you determine whether you need additional examination. 
 

Retinal exams provide a detailed and advanced look at the condition of the retina. They can help monitor eye diseases. Eye doctors can review the exam results quickly and, where necessary, refer the patient to a specialist. 
 

For more on what to expect at an Optomap retinal exam, visit Broad View Eye Center at our offices in Berea, Broadview Heights, or Strongsville, Ohio. Call (440) 526-7070 or (440) 238-7865 to book an appointment today.