Let’s explore the benefits of advanced diagnostic technology and how it’s revolutionizing the way we detect vision problems during an eye exam.
Why is Dilation Needed for Eye Exams?
Comprehensive eye exams are about more than great vision. Regardless of age, a majority of eye problems arise without a patient’s knowledge, and many conditions, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, can be treated successfully when caught early. In addition to checking for prescription changes, Drs. Scott and Staci Ecenbarger also examine the back of the eyes to confirm the retina and macula are healthy and don’t show signs of damage or disease.
When your pupil is small, the doctor’s view of the optic nerve and macula is limited. Prior to advanced diagnostic testing, the only way to examine the entire retina, optic nerve, and macula, was to dilate the pupil (or make it larger) by placing special drops into the eyes. While dilation enables the doctor to see 100% of the retina, they can only see about ⅛ at a time. It also requires 15-30 minutes for the drops to take effect after being administered, and patients often experience light sensitivity and difficulty focusing for 3-5 hours after their appointment.
Benefits of Diagnostic Testing
Many patients appreciate the opportunity to avoid having their eyes dilated as often, so Ecenbarger Eye Care introduced a Premier Diagnostic Package to provide patients with an alternative to dilation whenever possible. With Premier diagnostic testing, there’s no need for eye drops and the side effects of dilation.
Premier diagnostic testing is quick, easy, convenient, and also accurate. Drs. Scott and Staci can use this advanced testing to get a detailed view of the retina and macula, allowing them to spot any potential issues with ease. They can also save images for future reference, providing peace of mind knowing your eye health is being monitored closely.
Which is Better?
While Drs. Scott & Staci recommend the Premier Diagnostic Package whenever possible, both are great! The Optomap diagnostic test provides an overview of the retina in a single photo, offers a more detailed view than can be achieved by dilation, and provides a permanent record for in the patient’s medical file. iWellness OCT provides a cross-sectional view of the macula, which is particularly helpful in the early detection of macular degeneration and provides an early-warning system for glaucoma.
For patients with existing medical conditions, a significant family history, or too long a gap since their last dilation, dilation may still be necessary. When dilation is required, the benefits of diagnostic testing still apply, including the ability to save images to a patient’s file, to zoom in for a more detailed view, and to share pictures with patients to review findings. Therefore, we offer the opportunity to do both. The permanently recorded images also enable the doctor to monitor changes and compare your eye health year-over-year.
Personalize Your Eye Care
At the end of the day, our goal is to provide patients with the best eye care and options for them to personalize their experience by choosing which option is best for them. Whether it’s through advanced diagnostic testing, dilation, or just a friendly smile, we’re here to help you see the world more clearly – one eye exam at a time.
If you have questions about the Premier Diagnostic Package, or the technology used during your examination, Dr. Scott & Dr. Staci Ecenbarger are happy to discuss it with you.