Overview

OCT Imaging is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to obtain high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina. This examination provides detailed information about retinal structure and thickness.

OCT imaging is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and other retinal disorders. It provides quantitative measurements of retinal thickness and structure that cannot be obtained with other imaging methods.

Indications

Macular Degeneration

Evaluation of age-related macular degeneration

Diabetic Retinopathy

Assessment of diabetic macular edema

Glaucoma

Evaluation of optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer

Retinal Disorders

Assessment of various retinal diseases

Pre-operative Planning

Surgical planning for retinal procedures

Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications

Patient refusal
Severe corneal opacity
Inability to cooperate

Relative Contraindications

Severe photophobia
Recent eye surgery
Poor fixation ability

📋 Equipment Checklist

Check off items as you gather them:

Pre-procedure Preparation

Preparation includes explaining the procedure to patient, dilating pupils if needed, ensuring proper patient positioning, calibrating equipment, and preparing for potential complications. All team members should understand their roles.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Patient Preparation

Explain procedure to patient. Dilate pupils if needed. Position patient at OCT machine. Ensure proper head positioning.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate explanation
  • Poor positioning
  • Insufficient dilation

💡 Pro Tip:

Explain that the procedure is non-invasive and painless.

Step 2: Equipment Calibration

Calibrate OCT machine. Check fixation monitoring. Ensure proper function. Set appropriate scan protocols.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Skipping calibration
  • Poor monitoring
  • Equipment malfunction

💡 Pro Tip:

Always calibrate equipment before imaging.

Step 3: Scan Protocol Selection

Select appropriate scan protocol. Choose scan area and density. Set scan parameters.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong protocol
  • Inappropriate parameters
  • Poor selection

💡 Pro Tip:

Use standard protocols for consistency and comparison.

Step 4: Image Acquisition

Acquire OCT images. Monitor patient fixation. Ensure image quality. Repeat if needed.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor image quality
  • Inadequate fixation
  • Missing scans

💡 Pro Tip:

Monitor fixation and image quality throughout acquisition.

Step 5: Image Analysis

Analyze OCT images. Measure retinal thickness. Assess retinal layers. Note any abnormalities.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor analysis
  • Missing measurements
  • Incomplete assessment

💡 Pro Tip:

Use automated analysis tools for consistency.

Step 6: Documentation

Record OCT findings. Document measurements. Compare with previous examinations.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor documentation
  • Missing comparison
  • Incomplete records

💡 Pro Tip:

Always compare with previous OCT scans when available.

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Post-procedure Care

Post-procedure care involves analyzing images, comparing with previous examinations, monitoring for complications, and determining if additional testing is needed. Regular OCT imaging is essential for patients with retinal diseases.

Complications & Management

Complication Incidence Signs Management Prevention
Patient fatigue Common Poor fixation, decreased cooperation Break, encouragement, repeat if needed Adequate breaks, encouragement
Poor image quality 10-20% Blurry images, artifacts Repeat imaging, better fixation Good fixation, proper technique
Equipment malfunction Rare Poor images, errors Equipment check, repair Regular maintenance, calibration
Patient anxiety 10-15% Poor cooperation, anxiety Reassurance, gentle approach Good communication, explanation

Clinical Pearls

💡

Explain that the procedure is non-invasive and painless.

🎯

Always calibrate equipment before imaging.

Use standard protocols for consistency and comparison.

🔍

Monitor fixation and image quality throughout acquisition.

📊

Use automated analysis tools for consistency.

🎨

Always compare with previous OCT scans when available.

⚠️

Retinal thickness measurements are crucial for monitoring disease progression.