Optical Coherence Tomography, 3D OCT for short, in Berlin

WHAT IS EXAMINED?

The cross-sectional imaging enables the ophthalmologist to examine the finest retinal structures and detect subtle changes within the retinal layers, similar to a histological cross-section. It also includes an analysis of the optic nerve for glaucoma assessment. This examination evaluates the condition of the optic nerve fibers and determines whether they are functioning normally or already show glaucomatous damage.

A key advantage of this procedure is its ability to objectively quantify fluid accumulation (edema) in the macula. It also enables the early detection of glaucoma, allowing treatment to begin as soon as possible. The examination is completely non-contact, making it entirely free of complications and physical discomfort. This sets OCT apart from alternative diagnostic methods, which are typically invasive. Furthermore, there is no comparable technology in modern ophthalmic diagnostics.

Who Should Undergo the Examination and When?

The examination is particularly recommended for patients with suspected macular disease and is an essential part of the diagnostic work-up for possible glaucoma. Compared with invasive procedures such as fluorescein angiography, 3D OCT provides more detailed imaging while being completely non-invasive, safe, and comfortable for the patient.

• What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
• What Is Glaucoma?

Is the 3D OCT Examination Covered by Statutory Health Insurance?

In Germany, 3D Optical Coherence Tomography (3D OCT) is generally considered an individual health service (IGeL) and is therefore not routinely covered by statutory health insurance. As a result, the examination is usually paid for by the patient.There is currently no comparable diagnostic method that offers the same level of accuracy. Alternative examinations do not provide the same precision and, most importantly, lack the ability to detect diseases at an early stage. For example, visual field testing cannot be compared with 3D OCT in glaucoma diagnostics, as visual field defects typically become apparent only after a significant number of optic nerve fibers have already been lost.Likewise, examination with a slit lamp does not allow cross-sectional imaging of the retina or macula. It provides only a surface view and cannot visualize structures beneath the retinal surface.Furthermore, 3D OCT is the only completely non-invasive imaging procedure of its kind. Unlike invasive examinations such as fluorescein angiography, it does not require dye injection and therefore avoids potential complications, including allergic reactions.