Have you seen all the billboard ads and television commercials from one of our competitors Specsavers promoting their 3D Eye Health Scans. This innovative technology sounds like the future of eye care, but it's essential to know that they aren't the only ones offering this advanced care. 

For instance, Stonewire Optometry in Kingsway Mall has provided 3D Eye Health Scans as a standard of care since 2017, following our acquisition of the first Nidek OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) instrument.

Today, 3D Eye Health Scans are considered the minimum standard of care across Alberta in optometry clinics. Every eye care clinic must have one in their office, or at least have access to one. 

What Are 3D Eye Health Scans?

3D Eye Health Scans, often referred to through their technical name, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), are non-invasive imaging tests that provide high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina. These images help optometrists detect and treat eye conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration before they become more severe.

The Advantages of OCT Technology

The benefits of OCT technology in an eye health regimen are undeniable. OCT can provide detailed images of the eye's structure at a microscopic level, which allows for early detection of diseases that might not be visible through traditional eye examination methods. This early detection is crucial for conditions like glaucoma, where significant damage can occur before visible symptoms arise, potentially preventing irreversible vision loss.

The Limitations of OCT 3D Eye Health Scans

Despite its benefits, OCT does have its limitations. One of the main drawbacks is its field of view. While OCT provides exceptional detail, it does so in a very localized area of the retina. This narrow scope can sometimes miss peripheral retinal issues better captured by wider-field imaging technologies.

Comparison with Other Technologies

At Stonewire Optometry, we also utilize the Optomap ultrawide-field camera. This technology differs from OCT as it captures a more comprehensive view of the retina in a single image. Traditional retina cameras and OCT cameras can only view about 15% of the retina, vs. optomap, which can view about 82%. 

Optomap is particularly effective for routine eye health examinations, where a broader view of the eye can reveal health issues that might go undetected with OCT alone. While OCT is superb for detailed sectional scans, the Optomap provides a panoramic view, offering a complete picture of your ocular health. We can then point the OCT in the right direct to capture additional information. 

The Bottom Line

No single technology can do it all when it comes to managing and diagnosing eye health. Each has its strengths and is suited to different aspects of eye care. At Stonewire Optometry, we believe in utilizing the best tools available for specific needs. We offer both 3D Eye Health Scans, aka OCT Scans, and Optomap Ultra Widefield imaging to ensure comprehensive care.

While Specsavers' advertising of their 3D Eye Health Scans may seem like a new frontier, it's a well-established technology in optometry. Patients need to understand what technology is available and what it means for their eye care. At Stonewire Optometry, we're proud to have been at the forefront of incorporating advanced diagnostic tools like the Nidek 3D Eye Health Scan OCT since 2017, ensuring our patients receive the best care possible based on their unique needs.

Kingsway Mall Optometrist Clinic

If you're eager to experience the latest eye health technology and ensure your vision is in top shape, we invite you to visit us at Stonewire Optometry in Kingsway Mall. Our friendly team of optometrists is ready to provide you with a comprehensive eye health exam using our advanced OCT and Optomap imaging technologies. Schedule your appointment today to take the first step towards optimal eye health. For more information or to book your visit, please contact us at 780-628-6886. We look forward to welcoming you and addressing all your eye care needs!

Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog post by Stonewire Optometry eye care clinic in Kingsway Mall is intended solely for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment by a Licensed Optometrist. No doctor/patient relationship is established through the use of this blog. The information and resources presented are not meant to endorse or recommend any particular medical treatment. Readers must consult with their own healthcare provider regarding their health concerns. Stonewire Optometry and its optometrists do not assume any liability for the information contained herein nor for any errors or omissions. Use of the blog's content is at the user's own risk, and users are encouraged to make informed decisions about their health care based on consultations with qualified professionals.