Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and OCT-Angiography are the two most modern methods for imaging the posterior structures of the eye. These are two non-invasive, rapid, entirely painless, and safe methods for "mapping" the macula and the optic nerve with detail approaching histopathological examination. The information obtained helps the clinical doctor to see in real-time the macula of their patients, providing the opportunity for an in vivo "optical biopsy" of the examined tissue. The examination does not require any specific preparation on the part of the patient. Within seconds, a bright beam scans the retina, making a detailed record of all macular diseases. The obtained images can be analyzed, quantified, stored, and compared with previous images. The information we gather helps not only in diagnosing and measuring damage but also in monitoring the applied therapeutic treatment.
The applications of OCT and OCT-Angiography are numerous and undoubtedly constitute a fundamental tool, particularly important in the daily clinical practice of the modern Ophthalmologist. They have emerged as two absolutely necessary examinations for the diagnosis, staging, and monitoring of diseases such as Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Macular Hole, Epiretinal Membrane, Vitreomacular Traction, Central Serous Chorioretinopathy, and Cystoid Macular Edema. Equally important is their contribution to the study and monitoring of glaucoma patients, especially for the detection of early pre-perimetric damage.
Optical Coherence Tomography and OCT-Angiography are an integral part of the operation of a modern Ophthalmology department.
