What is Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)?

OCT is an advanced eye scan that takes a high-resolution cross-section image of the retina (back layer of the eye), like an “ultrasound” but using light instead of sound.

It helps the doctor see the retina layers in great detail.

👁️ Why is OCT done?

OCT is mainly used to detect or monitor:

✅ Diabetic Retinopathy
✅ Macular edema (fluid/swelling in retina)
✅ Macular degeneration
✅ Glaucoma (optic nerve & nerve fiber layer analysis)
✅ Retinal detachment / retinal thinning
✅ Eye nerve damage
✅ Blur vision causes when the eye looks normal externally

🩺 How is OCT done?

You sit and place your chin on a stand (like other eye machines)

You look at a light target

The machine scans your eye in seconds

No pain

Usually no contact with the eye

⏱️ Time taken

Normally 5–10 minutes.

⚠️ Do they use eye drops?

Sometimes dilation drops are used (if the pupil is small or retina view is unclear)

Many times OCT is done without dilation