Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

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Eye Centre, Mater Private Network, Eccles Street, Dublin7, D07 WKW8 01 885 8621 ereferrals@materprivate.ie

Please note that a referral letter is required before an appointment can be confirmed.

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About this service

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a scan used to examine the layers of the retina. The retina is the light sensitive area at the back of the eye, equivalent to film in a camera. 

An OCT takes 3D images of the layers of the retina which allow your retinal specialist to see the structures in the retina that may not be visible with direct examination. 

  • The OCT scan is very simple and just takes fifteen to twenty minutes. 
  • It is a completely non-contact test. There are no puffs of air or light flashes into your eyes. 
  • Your pupils will be dilated and so you can expect that your vision will be blurred for four to six hours afterwards. 
  • This scan may be used to diagnose certain eye conditions and to help plan treatment. 
  • As your pupils will have been dilated, your vision will be blurred for four to six hours afterwards. 
  • You should have someone ready to accompany you home. 
  • Do not drive after the scan. 
  • OCT scans may need to be repeated regularly to monitor response to treatments or changes in your eye condition.