Our office offers ultrawide field (UWF) retinal imaging as an important part of our eye exams. A special camera produces a UWF image that is unique and provides Dr Hillson with a high-resolution 200° image so he can assess the health of your retina. This is much wider than a traditional 45° image provided with older cameras. Many eye problems can develop without you knowing, in fact, you may not even notice any change in your sight – fortunately, diseases or damage such as ocular tumours, macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal tears or detachments, and other health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure can be seen with a thorough exam of the retina.
The inclusion of UWF retinal imaging as part of a comprehensive eye exam provides:
• A scan to show a healthy eye or detect disease.
• A wide view of the retina, giving your doctor a more comprehensive view than they can get by other means.
• The opportunity for you to view and discuss the image of your eye with your doctor at the time of your exam.
• A permanent record for your file, which allows the doctor to view your images each year to look for changes. If you change doctors, the images can be forwarded to your new doctor.
UWF retinal imaging is fast, easy, and comfortable for anyone. The imaging process consists of the patient looking into the device one eye at a time, usually without dilation drops. The UWF images are shown immediately on a computer screen so we can review it with you. UWF imaging is not considered essential to your care and is not covered by OHIP. This testing costs $75. Patients who are seen frequently for AMD or diabetes or other conditions of the retina are offered a card that covers UWF retinal imaging and fundus auto-fluorescence testing for one year for $250. For more information on the UWF retinal imaging please visit the optomap website.
