Our Technology
At Charlestown Eyecare our Eye Examination Technology includes
Optos Retinal Imaging
One special piece of equipment at Charlestown Eyecare is our Optos Optomap scanner. This equipment uses ultra-widefield (UWF™) scanning laser technology to provide a digital picture of your retina. The Optos machine can view more than 80% of the back of the eye in 3D, showing detailed views of the vessels and nerves. These images are an instant snapshot of your eye health and can be saved for future comparison to pick up any changes or anomalies.
Optos was founded by a father, Douglas Anderson, who developed the scanner for early detection of retinal detachment, after his 5 year old son Leif lost his sight in one eye when, sadly, it was diagnosed too late. His research and hard work led to the patient-friendly Optos equipment that provides the Optomap ultra wide retinal scan.
The test is simple, quick and painless. In most cases dilation drops are not required for this retinal exam. A totally non-invasive eye test, you simply look into the machine and a comfortable flash is all that’s seen when the Optos machine takes its image. An Optos retinal exam is safe for all members of the family, in fact it is recommended due to the benefits of being able to thoroughly check the back of the eye. Things that may go undetected with conventional eye examinations can be picked up by an Optomap, especially important for early detection of vision problems in children.
Early signs of eye diseases or disorders can be detected on the ultra wide retinal scan long before any symptoms develop. These may include:
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glaucoma
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diabetic retinopathy
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detachment or tears in the retina
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age-related macular degeneration.
Since the blood vessels can be seen directly in the retina, other more general health conditions may be noticed, for example the potential for heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers. Irregularities in blood pressure can be picked up and even the conditions for a stroke might be seen in the eye and possibly avoided.
At Charlestown Eyecare, we are pleased to offer the Optos Optomap scanner as part of our commitment to bring you the best services and technology to take care of your vision. Come and experience the most comfortable and easy retina exam available.
Digital Photography
"A picture tells a thousand words". Recent technological advancements in eyecare now enable us to capture a digital image of the retina, blood vessels and optic nerve located at the back of your eyes. This simple, painless test takes a few minutes to complete and aids in early detection and management of diseases that can affect both your eyes and overall health. This includes glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetes, and hypertension.
Corneal Topography
Computerised corneal topography allows us to take a video image of reflections from the cornea and derive the shape and regularity of the surface.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
People often experience changes in their vision when they reach their 40s. To look out for the early signs of eye conditions, in case there’s a more serious problem, we use an Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) device. This device is a non-invasive imaging unit that uses light waves to take cross-section pictures of your retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye.
Field of Vision
Some eye conditions, such as glaucoma, will affect peripheral vision long before central vision is reduced. The most accurate evaluation of your peripheral vision is with computerised perimetry to measure the sensitivity of your field of vision.
Optical Biometry
Is the current standard for intraocular lens (IOL) power calculations in clinical practice and is used for measuring axial length of the eye. The process of measuring the various anatomical characteristics of the eye that are needed for IOL power calculation is called Ocular Biometry. This is particularly helpful in the management of Myopia.