What is Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)?

Optical coherence tomography (OCT)  is a non-invasive imaging method used to image the cornea, anterior segment angle region, lens curvature, optic nerve, macula, retina, and other eye structures in high resolution. It provides high-resolution, detailed cross-sectional images. Today, it is an important imaging method used in the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of many eye diseases. It is particularly used in the diagnosis and monitoring of glaucoma, for the early detection of optic nerve damage and for monitoring the disease. In our clinic, with this device, which measures the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell complex (GCC) in glaucoma patients, it is possible to make an early diagnosis and evaluate the progression of the disease at the micron level. It is also a reliable imaging method for monitoring the response to treatment. Furthermore, anterior segment OCT is an important auxiliary imaging method for the diagnosis and post-treatment evaluation of corneal opacities, lens vault curvature, angle closure, and closed-angle glaucoma.

What is Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA)?

OKTA, on the other hand, is an OCT device developed to visualize the blood vessels of the retina. Unlike classic fluorescein angiography (FFA), OKTA does not involve injecting dye (fluorescent substance) into the blood vessel, and the procedure is completed in a very short time. This allows for a more comfortable, easy, and safe examination for patients. It is particularly important in detecting new blood vessel formation (neovascularization). It is an important imaging method in the diagnosis and monitoring of many eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DRP), and glaucoma (high eye pressure).

How are OCT and OCT tests performed?

OCT (Open CT) is a comfortable procedure requiring no special preparation beforehand. The patient simply places their chin and forehead on the OCT device, focuses on a fixed light target, and the scan is performed within seconds. The eye is not touched during this process, and there is no pain. The device automatically performs its analysis. In disease monitoring, it also shows progression (if any) over time. It is used to monitor the response to treatment. In individuals with corneal lesions, cataracts, or those who cannot fixate on a fixed point or focus light, the image may be unclear. In OCT, it is necessary to recognize and differentiate image artifacts effectively.