Advanced Ocular Imaging & Diagnostics

Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT) is a non-invasive confocal scanning laser microscope that is used to obtain a three-dimensional, computerized scan (like a CAT scan) of your optic nerve head and retina in the posterior segment. Due to its ability to produce highly accurate and reproducible topographic images, this sophisticated technology is applied effectively to diagnosing early glaucoma and monitoring the progression of glaucoma, as well as, evaluating macular holes or edema. Today, HRT is the gold standard for imaging the optic nerve.

This instrument measures peripheral (side) vision. Optometrists require detailed visual fields to determine conditions like glaucoma, stroke and neurological disease.

An OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) takes cross-section images of your retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. The image allows optometrists to map and measure the thickness of these layers to help diagnose and treat glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease.

A pachymeter measures the thickness of the cornea, the outer structure of the eye. Optometrists use the measurements prior to refractive surgery (LASIK and PRK) and preliminary glaucoma screening.

A topographer maps the surface curvature of the cornea, the outer structure of the eye primarily responsible for the eye’s refractive power. This image helps optometrists determine the quality of vision and corneal health.

This technology images the structure (shape and size) of meibomian glands and the degree of drop out (glands that are missing or atrophied). This test helps optometrists determine how to treat dry eye as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is responsible for dry eye syndrome in many patients.

The eye is designed to produce tears as a means of cleaning and lubricating itself. When the eye does not produce enough tears or produces tears of poor quality, it results in a debilitating condition known as dry eye disease. Bell Booth Sirkka is uniquely equipped to diagnose and treat dry eye disease, restoring comfort and function to the eyes.

The macula is a small area of the retina responsible for detailed central vision. With age, deposits (drusen) or irregular blood vessels may form causing tissue damage and blindness. This disease is called age-related macular degeneration. Using advanced diagnostics and ocular imaging, our optometrists can effectively detect AMD early and administer treatment before vision is permanently damaged.

Glaucoma refers to a collection of conditions which result in cumulative damage to the optic nerve causing permanent loss of vision. Cases with both high intraocular pressure (IOP) and normal IOP exist. Our advanced diagnostic equipment allows our optometrists to detect and treat glaucoma early, limiting damage to the optic nerve and slowing vision loss.

Diabetes, the leading cause of blindness in middle-aged Canadians, causes damage to blood vessels in the retina via hemorrhages and eventually irregular blood vessel growth. Early detection, with the aid of advanced imaging, is key in managing this disease and preserving vision. Visit an optometrist regularly for a comprehensive ocular health assessment.