Optical coherence tomography

Our HCA UK specialists can offer you this test and this test can be used to confirm inherited eye conditions

What is OCT?

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a type of scanner that helps your HCA UK ophthalmologists diagnose your eye condition.

Using light waves, the OCT creates a map of your retina and highlights any damaged areas. This very simple test can identify problems such as macular holes, macular degeneration and glaucoma.

Need to know

Having your test with us

What happens during an OCT test?

Your OCT test is very straightforward. The whole process should last around 45 minutes in the consultation room and requires no anaesthetic. Your consultant will likely follow these steps:

Give you eye drops on your arrival to dilate (enlarge) your pupils. This takes about 30 minutes to work
Once your pupils are dilated, you will be seated in front of the OCT machine. Your eyes are then scanned for the next 15 minutes

It is worth noting that whilst the OCT test is completely painless, your vision may be slightly blurred from the eye drops. They can take between 6-8 hours to wear off. As a result it is requested that you arrange for somebody to drive you home from the hospital.

How to prepare

Your consultant will explain how the OCT test works and answer any questions you might have. It is unlikely you will need to prepare anything beforehand.

After your test

It is possible your consultant optician may give you your results on the day of your OCT test. Otherwise you will be informed of them in a follow-up appointment. You will be able to go home shortly after your test, and carry on with your daily routine as normal.