RETINAL IMAGING
What is a Digital Retina Imaging?
Digital retinal imaging, also called fundus photography, is the creation of a high-resolution photograph of the interior portion of the eye, called the retina. Without having to dilate the eyes, a specialized retinal camera is used to document detailed images of the various structures of the retina including the optic nerve, veins and arteries, nerve fiber layer, and the macula.
At Urban Optiks, we use retinal imaging to diagnose abnormalities such as diabetes, hypertension, macular degeneration and glaucoma that may threaten normal vision and general health. With this technology, these potentially sight and life-threatening diseases can be detected early, monitored and treated.
Glaucoma Evaluation
Glaucoma is a term describing a group of ocular disorders that result in optic nerve damage, often associated with increased fluid pressure in the eye. Glaucoma can permanently damage vision in the affected eye(s), first by decreasing peripheral vision (reducing the visual field), and then potentially leading to blindness if left untreated.
At Urban Optiks, we screen for glaucoma using a
non-contact computerized tonometer, a.k.a. the “puff-of-air” test, which measures the interocular pressure (IOP) to diagnose glaucoma in its earliest stages. Because most people have no symptoms or warning signs until the disease has advanced beyond repair, it is crucial for all patients to have digital retinal imaging and a visual field screening in addition to tonometry in order to detect this silent blinder as early as possible.
Cataract Evaluation
A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the one or both eyes leading to a decrease in vision. Cataracts often develop slowly and are most commonly due to aging. Symptoms may include faded colors, blurry vision, halos around light, trouble with bright lights and trouble seeing at night. This may result in trouble driving, reading, or recognizing faces. Cataracts are the cause of half of blindness and 33% of visual impairment worldwide.
At Urban Optiks, we use the
biomicroscope to inspect the integrity of the intraocular lens. Early detection of cataracts and monitoring their progression is essential to determining the proper time frame for surgery. We refer to and co-manage with, many of the leading ophthalmologists in San Diego to ensure continuity of care and treatment.
Macular Degeneration Evaluation
Macular degeneration (AMD or ARMD) is a medical condition that usually affects older adults and results in a loss of vision in the center of the visual field caused by the breakdown of the macula. It is a major cause of blindness and visual impairment in older adults, afflicting 30-50 million people globally. Macular degeneration can make it difficult or impossible to read or recognize faces, although enough peripheral vision remains to allow other activities of daily life.
At Urban Optiks, we use digital retinal imaging to observe the macula. Visual field testing is also performed to screen for macular degeneration. Early detection, monitoring, and nutraceutical supplements are key to managing the progression of this disease.
