Retinal imaging is a new technology available at Galbrecht Eyecare. The retinal camera is used to take a digital picture of the retina of the eye, or the back of the eye. The eye is the only place where you can see the vasculature of the body without surgery.
The retinal camera gives us a view of the posterior pole, the area of the eye with the optic nerve and macula. It is approximately a 45 degree view. You can also take photos of the front of the eye if needed to document freckles, red spots, or abrasions. Using the retinal camera enhances the management of retinal disease, such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.
The Nidek retinal camera improves efficiency in time, space, and patient comfort. The lower flash intensity and sound-dampened mechanical movements, along with automatic blink and pupil measurement, make for the perfect picture every time with fewer retakes and happier patients. It is one of the fastest automatic retinal cameras available with capture time often less than five seconds. The speed and simplicity of the retinal camera results in an enhanced practice flow. This means more accurate data, faster eye exams, and less need for retakes.
When the eye imaging is activated, patients will see a green light to focus on and when the machine is aligned properly, it will take a picture causing the patient to see a flash of light that will temporarily feel uncomfortable.
Dr. Galbrecht recommends that every patiend have their eyes scanned using the retinal camera. She explains that “This technology allows for a baseline photo of the retina so that if something should change or develop, we have a digital picture to compare the images. It’s wonderful for seeing subtle differences or progression of diabetic retinopathy. The patients love to see their retina (the back of the eye). They want to know that their eyes are normal looking and if something is abnormal, see exactly what it is.”
Using the retinal camera can help discover not only vision related issues but others as well. Dr. Diane Galbrecht continues; ” Many times patients do not know there is a problem when they come in for their annual exam. More than a few times, cases of diabetes and hypertension are discovered for which the patient is not currently treated. These patients are then referred to their primary care physician along with a letter and photos documenting their problems.”
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