Retinal Examination Instruments – Part Two

Slit Lamp: A slit lamp is a microscope with a light attached that allows your doctor to closely examine the eye. This instrument is used to view structures of the eye such as the cornea, iris and lens. However, with special lenses, it is possible to examine the back of the eye as well.

Manual Keratometer: A manual keratometer measures the curvature of the cornea. It is often used to measure and diagnose conditions such as astigmatism, keratonus, corneal scarring and corneal distortion. A keratometer is commonly used to fit contact lenses as well.

Tonometer: A tonometer is used to measure the pressure of the eye, it can help detect glaucoma.

Retinoscope: A retinoscope is a handheld device used to determine the refractive power of the eye by observing the lights and shadows on the pupil when a mirror illumines the retina. It is also useful for determining how well the eyes work together, accommodate, to see clearly.

Direct Ophthalmoscope: A direct ophthalmoscope is a hand-held instrument used for examining the interior structures of the eye, especially the retina. It consists of a mirror that reflects light into the eye and a central hole through which the eye is examined. This is used by your doctor to obtain a 2-dimensional view of the retina and optic nerve.

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Optical coherence tomography is a non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to take cross-sectional pictures of the retina. Each of the distinctive layers of the retina can be detected and analyzed, allowing your doctor to map and measure the thickness of each layer to aid in early detection, diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases and conditions. Such conditions include age-related macular degeneration, macular holes, macular edema, retinopathy, glaucoma and optic nerve damage.

If you’re ready to schedule a retinal examination in Phoenix, contact Associated Retina Consultants at 602-242-4928 or associatedretinaconsultants.com today.