optometry@cooroy

DIGITAL RETINAL PHOTOGRAPHY

What is it?
A retinal camera is a highly specialised form of medical imaging and can’t be done with an ordinary camera. It requires a customised camera that is mounted to a microscope with intricate lenses and mirrors and connected to a computer.

Why do we use it?
The images recorded are necessary to document the health of the fundus including the retina, optic nerve, macula and retinal blood vessels and provides an accurate reference point to detect early and subtle signs of conditions such as Macular Degeneration and changes in the eyes associated with Diabetes and monitor any further progression.

How do we do it?
The procedure is painless and takes approximately five to ten minutes. In some cases it may be necessary to use eye drops before the procedure to dilate the pupil for an improved view. You are asked to stare at a fixation point so that your eyes remain still. While the photographer is taking the images, you will see a series of bright (but not uncomfortably so) flashes.

What do we do with the results?
The images taken are saved and can provide an accurate reference for future comparison. Where appropriate we will be happy to forward your digital images directly to your GP or ophthalmologist via email.

How much does it cost?
This special service uses sophisticated equipment and is not covered by Medicare, however Medicare has approved of a fee to be charged in addition to our normal bulk-billed consultation fee.

You might be able to claim part of this fee from your private health fund.

VISUAL FIELD ANALYSIS

What is it?
A visual field test (or perimetry) measures how much “side” vision you have and how sensitive it is. The extent of your visual field is the furthest you can see in all directions when you are looking straight ahead. This test is important to make sure there are no abnormal blind spots in your visual field.

Why do we test your visual field?
The test is used to detect any loss of peripheral vision and provide a map of that loss which will be helpful in diagnosing the cause. In particular visual field testing is an important tool to detect and monitor blind spots caused by diseases of the optic nerve and brain. Diseases that may affect the visual field of the eye include glaucoma, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, hypertension, stroke, diseases of the pituitary gland and multiple sclerosis.

How do we do it?
It is a straightforward test, painless and will usually be completed without the need for eye drops.

This test is conducted by your optometrist or optometric assistant who will stay with you to help you get the most accurate reading possible. The test typically lasts between 5 and 15 minutes for each eye.

You sit in front of a concave dome and stare at a central target within the dome. A computer-driven program flashes small lights at different locations within the dome’s surface and you press a button when you see the small lights in your peripheral vision. Some of the flashes are purely to check you are concentrating. Your responses are then compared to age-matched controls to determine the presence of defects within the visual field.

What do we do with the results?
The visual field results are saved and can provide an accurate reference for future comparison. Where appropriate we will be happy to forward your results directly to your GP or ophthalmologist via fax or email.

How much does it cost?
Where indicated by clinical need, visual field tests are covered by Medicare.