At Arthur Hayes, we have always invested in the very latest technology to help us identify sight-threatening conditions as early as possible. 20 years ago, we invested in a retinal camera producing a static photograph of the retina in great detail. In 2011 as optical technology continued to evolve we got our first OCT 3D retinal scanner and in 2022 we have now introduced the addition of Optomap.
An interesting video about Optomap can be viewed below:

What are the benefits of Optomap?
Optomap is an ultra-wide scan of the back of your eye, which allows us to view up to 82% of your retina, compared to 15% of your retina seen with more traditional technology. You will be familiar with the retinal image taken in the eye examination; this image below shows just how much more we can now see with Optomap without the need for dilation of the pupil with eye drops.

Optomap is a simple, non-invasive procedure. It takes less than 1 second to capture and produces a very detailed colour image of your retina. This enables us to see much more of your retina than ever before, measure aspects of your eye, and zoom in to see some of the finer details at various layers of your retina. Most importantly just as with an OCT, it is an effective way to track changes in your eyes over time. Optomap images are created by non-invasive, low-intensity scanning lasers. No adverse health effects have been reported in over 150 million sessions.

I recommend Optomap for every patient as I believe that a detailed assessment of the retina is extremely important for ensuring the very best eye care. Optomap is only now becoming available in some select eye hospital departments so this is a great addition for any possible onward referral as images can also be shared with relevant consultants.

From May 16th 2022 Optomap is included as standard with all routine eye examinations. The eye examination fee is £90 including Optomap and OCT. For patients, under 30 years the fee is £35 (if you have health insurance you may be able to claim any optical care back from your policy).

I look forward to welcoming you in practice again soon and sharing this amazing technology.

Lucinda

*The information presented here reflects general information about the retina and Optomap but of course there are always exceptions to these

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