Optical coherence tomography, or OCT, is a modern imaging examination that provides detailed, cross-sectional images of the structures inside the eye. The device uses infrared light to create images of the retina, optic nerve or cornea.

These images allow the doctor to see fine tissue layers that cannot be examined in detail during a routine eye examination. Put simply, OCT is somewhat similar to an ultrasound scan: it provides images of internal eye structures without any incisions. However, ultrasound uses sound waves, whereas OCT uses light. The device does not touch the eye, and the procedure is painless and involves no injections.

At Eye Microsurgery, OCT is included as part of the initial comprehensive eye examination. It helps the doctor assess not only visual acuity, but also the condition of the retina, optic nerve and other important structures of the eye.

What Does OCT Show?

OCT helps the doctor assess different structures of the eye. However, an OCT image does not replace a medical consultation. The results are always assessed together with the patient’s symptoms, visual acuity test, intraocular pressure measurement and fundus examination.

Retina and Macula

The macula is the central area of the retina responsible for clear, detailed vision. OCT can reveal swelling, fluid accumulation, macular holes, age-related changes and degenerative conditions.

Optic Nerve

OCT measures the thickness of the nerve fibre layer around the optic nerve. This is particularly important in cases of glaucoma or suspected glaucoma, as the examination can help detect changes before the patient notices any deterioration in vision.

Cornea

OCT may also be used to assess the thickness and structure of the cornea. This information is important before laser vision correction and in certain conditions affecting the front of the eye.

When Is OCT Particularly Important?

During an initial comprehensive examination at Eye Microsurgery, OCT is performed as part of the diagnostic assessment. A doctor may also recommend a separate or repeat OCT scan when clinically indicated — for example, to clarify a diagnosis, monitor a known condition or assess the results of treatment.

OCT may be particularly important in the following cases:

• dry or wet age-related macular degeneration;
• diabetic or hypertensive retinopathy;
• glaucoma or suspected glaucoma;
• macular holes;
• central serous chorioretinopathy;
• optic nerve disorders;
• preparation for laser vision correction;
• monitoring the treatment of retinal and optic nerve conditions.

Depending on the clinical situation, the doctor may recommend other examination methods, such as OCT angiography or fluorescein angiography. These examinations are not required for every patient and are performed only when clinically indicated.

Urgent medical attention is required if your vision suddenly deteriorates, part of your visual field disappears, or you experience eye pain, flashes of light, a dark spot or the sensation of a curtain across your vision. In such cases, you should not wait for a routine appointment.

What Happens During the Examination?

The examination is straightforward and painless. You sit in front of the device, rest your chin and forehead on the supports and look at a fixation light. The device scans the eye, after which the doctor assesses the images obtained.

The scanning itself usually takes only a few minutes. The device does not touch the eye.

In some cases, pupil-dilating eye drops may be required before OCT. They are used if recommended by the doctor to provide a clearer view of the back of the eye. After the drops have been administered, it usually takes approximately 15–30 minutes for them to take effect.

If dilating drops are used, your vision may remain blurred for three to six hours. During this time, reading, working with small details and driving may be more difficult. It is best not to drive after pupil dilation. Sunglasses may help reduce discomfort caused by bright light.

If dilating drops are not used, there are usually no restrictions following the examination.

Contact lenses must be removed before the examination. As it is not always possible to know in advance whether dilating drops will be required, it is advisable to allow approximately one hour for your visit.

Are There Any Contraindications?

OCT is suitable for most patients. The examination does not require injections, no medication is injected into the eye, and it does not involve X-ray radiation. It may be performed in children and during pregnancy when medically indicated.

The quality of the images may be reduced in patients with a mature cataract, significant corneal opacity or bleeding inside the eye, as well as in patients who find it difficult to keep their gaze still. In such cases, the doctor will recommend another suitable examination method.

Benefits of OCT

• It is painless and does not involve contact with the eye.
• It does not use X-ray radiation.
• It provides detailed images of the retina, optic nerve and cornea.
• It helps detect changes at an early stage.
• It allows the doctor to monitor the progression of a condition and the results of treatment.
• It may be repeated as often as required for ongoing monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is OCT Painful?

No. The device does not touch the eye. During the scan, you simply need to look at the fixation light.

How Is OCT Different from CT and MRI?

CT uses X-rays, while MRI uses a magnetic field. OCT uses light and provides detailed images of fine structures inside the eye, including the retina, optic nerve and cornea.

Can I Drive After the Examination?

If pupil-dilating eye drops have been used before the examination, it is best not to drive, as your vision may remain blurred for several hours. If dilating drops have not been used, there are usually no restrictions.

Do I Need to Prepare for OCT?

No special preparation is required. If you wear contact lenses, you will need to remove them before the examination.

It is advisable to allow extra time for your visit in case pupil-dilating eye drops are required.

How Often Should I Have an OCT Scan?

OCT should be performed as advised by your doctor. In patients with glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinal oedema and other chronic conditions, OCT is repeated regularly to monitor the condition of the eye. The appropriate interval between examinations is determined by the doctor.

Can I Have OCT as a Standalone Examination?

Yes, OCT may be performed as a standalone examination, although it is less commonly recommended on its own. It is usually performed separately to monitor a known condition or following a doctor’s recommendation.

In most cases, OCT is more informative when performed as part of a comprehensive eye examination, as the doctor assesses the scan together with all the other findings concerning the condition of the eyes.

Where Can I Have an OCT Scan?

OCT examinations are available at Eye Microsurgery centres in Chișinău, Tiraspol and Rîbnița.

OCT is included in the comprehensive eye examination. When performed as part of this examination, there is no separate charge for the procedure. OCT may also be performed as a standalone examination.

The cost of a standalone OCT examination can be found in the Prices section.

To undergo a comprehensive eye examination or find out whether you require a standalone OCT scan, book a consultation at your nearest Eye Microsurgery centre.