OCTA is a specialised form of OCT that provides information about the blood flow within the retina and choroid without the need for dye injection. It aids in assessing blood supply to the macula in patients with diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusions as well as non-invasive visualisation of macular neovascularisation.

Ocular ultrasound provides valuable information about various aspects of the eye’s anatomy and pathology. It can show:

Change in Globe Size: Ocular ultrasound helps assess any alterations in the size of the eye, such as enlargement or shrinkage, which can indicate certain conditions or pathologies.

Optic Nerve Evaluation: The optic nerve, crucial for vision, can be visualised and evaluated using ocular ultrasound. It allows for the assessment of its structure, integrity, and any abnormalities.

Scleral Buckling: Ocular ultrasound can detect and evaluate the presence of scleral buckling, a surgical technique used to repair retinal detachments by indenting the sclera. This information aids in assessing the success of the procedure.

Foreign Body Detection: Ocular ultrasound helps identify the presence and location of foreign bodies within the eye, providing crucial information for proper management and removal.

Tumour Size: Ocular ultrasound allows for the measurement and assessment of the size of ocular tumours. This information is essential for diagnosing and monitoring the progression of the tumour.

Globe Perforation: In cases of trauma or other conditions that may result in globe perforation, ocular ultrasound can reveal the extent and location of the perforation.

Retrobulbar Hematoma or Emphysema: Ocular ultrasound assists in diagnosing retrobulbar hematoma (bleeding behind the eye) or emphysema (presence of air behind the eye), which may occur as a result of trauma or other underlying conditions.

Lens Subluxation/Dislocation: Ocular ultrasound can detect abnormalities or displacement of the lens, such as subluxation or dislocation, aiding in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.

By providing detailed imaging and visualisation, ocular ultrasound helps clinicians gain critical insights into the eye’s structures, enabling accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment decisions.

Ocular ultrasound offers several benefits in the field of ophthalmology. Some of these benefits include:

Improved Visualisation: Ocular ultrasound allows for the visualisation of structures within the eye that may be obscured by opaque substances such as dense cataracts or corneal opacities. It provides a clear view of these structures, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Real-time Information: Ocular ultrasound provides real-time information about certain conditions, such as retinal detachment. It allows clinicians to assess the status and extent of detachment immediately, facilitating prompt decision-making and appropriate intervention.

Safety: Ocular ultrasound is a safe imaging technique that does not expose patients to ionizing radiation, unlike other imaging modalities like X-rays or CT scans. It can be used in various patient populations, including pregnant women and children, without posing any significant risks.

Radiation-Free: As mentioned earlier, ocular ultrasound does not involve the use of radiation. This aspect makes it a preferred imaging method, particularly when repeated evaluations or monitoring are required.

Accessibility and Affordability: Ocular ultrasound is widely accessible, and the equipment required for performing ultrasound examinations is readily available in many healthcare settings. Moreover, compared to other imaging techniques, ocular ultrasound is relatively low-cost, making it a cost-effective option for diagnosing and managing ocular conditions.

Overall, ocular ultrasound provides valuable information, is safe to use, and offers advantages such as improved visualisation and real-time assessment, making it a valuable tool in the field of ophthalmology.