Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an important non-invasive imaging test used by a retinal physician to diagnosis and manage retinal diseases.  OCT uses light waves to take a cross-section picture of the retina.  OCT enables the retina physician to see the distinctive layers of the retina down to a microscopic level (on the order of 10 micrometers).

To perform the test, the patient will sit in front of the OCT machine with the head rested on a supportive chin rest.  The machine will then scan the eye without ever physically touching the eye.  The test takes about 5 minutes to complete.

Because OCT uses light to produce high resolution images, there is no risk to the patient of harmful side effects.