Special Testing and Services
In addition to a complete retinal examination, we provide a number of services and procedures for patients with retinal diseases. Most of these procedures can be done in each of our satellite offices; a few are quite specialized and are performed at one of our larger offices in the Texas Medical Center or The Woodlands.
Fluorescein Angiography
A photographic study of the retina using a specialized camera and dye injected into a vein of the arm. This yellow dye passes through the blood vessels in your retina and is used to diagnose many different disorders affecting the retina.
Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT)
An imaging technique that utilizes light wave interferometry to produce high resolution cross sectional images, similar to a computed tomography (CT) scan, of the retina. The images measure the thickness of the retina and are useful in the diagnosis and follow-up of many diseases affecting the macula. Higher resolution Spectral Domain OCT testing is available at our Texas Medical Center and Woodlands offices.
Fundus AutoFluorescence
Fundus Autofluorescence utilizes a blue-green wavelength light to visualize conditions that affect the pigment layer of the retina (retinal pigment epithelium). This simple non-invasive technique has greatly expanded our understanding and management of many different diseases affecting the macula, including dry age related macular degeneration.
Indocyanine Green Angiography
ICG is another colored dye that is injected into a peripheral vein, and then travels into the circulation of the eye. Special infrared photographs are taken, allowing visualization of deeper retinal structures or visualization of diseases through blood or fluid. In some cases, both fluorescein and indocyanine green angiograms are utilized.
Ultrasonography
An examination of the eye using sound waves to produce images of the inner eye. This is especially important when the eye doctor cannot see into the eye with conventional examination techniques.
Visual Field Testing
A measurement of the amount of peripheral or side vision.
Macular Function Testing
A measurement of the retina's potential for vision. Useful in patients with cataracts and other diseases to help predict postoperative vision. Also includes color vision testing.
Electrophysiology
ERG (electroretinography) and EOG (electrooculography) measure the electrical response of the different layers and components of the retina to light and dark stimuli. These tests are useful in the diagnosis of hereditary conditions affecting the retina.