05/04/19Optomap – Ultra-wide digital retinal imaging by Optos
Many eye problems can develop without you knowing – in fact, you may not even notice any change in your sight. Fortunately, problems such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal tears or detachments can be seen with a thorough exam of the retina. On occasion other health issues such as diabetes and high blood pressure may also be revealed.
At Claudine Ickeringill Optometrists we are committed to investing in the latest technologies to give you the best care. We are delighted to announce that, we can now offer the latest innovation in retinal technology, ultra-wide digital retinal imaging by Optos to enhance our comprehensive eye examination.
Optos is a high-tech scanning laser ophthalmoscope which is used to see further into the peripheral retina than previously possible. Traditional retinal cameras capture a 45° image of the retina, in comparison the Optomap provides a high-resolution 200° image. This much wider view of the retina enables us to detect changes in the periphery with greater accuracy.
Optomap imaging is easy and comfortable. In under a second, 80% of the retina is scanned through a series of combined red and green lasers which are projected through an optical scanning system. These lasers sweep through a virtual scanning point inside the eye and then the laser light returns through the system and splits into the original red/green components. Your results are immediate and may be reviewed on the computer screen straight away. Through this new system, we can easily compare your results year on year to look out for any changes.
Optos was founded by Douglas Anderson in 1992 after his young son went blind in one eye following an undiscovered retinal detachment. Although his son was having regular eye exams, routine checks were uncomfortable, especially for a child, which made it impossible for the doctor to conduct a complete exam and view the entire retina.
Anderson set out to create a patient-friendly retinal imaging device that encompassed a digital, wide field image of the retina in a single capture. Though now an international success, Optos had humble beginnings, in fact, the first design for his machine was drawn on the back of a napkin! After many years of hard work, investment and technological designs, in 1999 Anderson was awarded the Order of the British Empire by the Queen for his outstanding contributions to the sciences. Today, Optos have a range of high spec machines that help thousands of eye care professionals all around the world save sight and lives.
This is an exciting advancement in optical technology & we are very pleased to be able to offer this at your next eye test. If you are interested in finding out more or would like to arrange an eye test, please get in touch.