In our continual search for innovative diagnostic equipment, we were so impressed with what OPTOMAP could do, that Mt Tam Vision Center became one of the first fifty sites in the United States and hundred in the world to offer this revolutionary retinal imaging system. OPTOMAP is a high resolution scanning imagery system which details the retina out to 180 degrees and can be done without dilation. 

 

Any routine eye exam should always include a careful assessment of the retina to screen for abnormalities or disease. Of particular concern to the doctor are retinal problems like macular degeneration, retinal holes or detachments; and systemic diseases like diabetes, arteriosclerosis, and hypertension. These conditions, which often develop without warning or symptoms, are progressive and can lead to serious health and eye problems including partial loss of vision or blindness. Early detection of any retinal abnormality is thus crucial.

 

The ability to pull images from previous years to be placed side-by-side on the computer screen for comparison with that day’s retinal image is invaluable. In this way the doctor can check on the development of a condition or follow how effective the treatment is. We have also found it to be an invaluable tool for patient education. There is nothing better than being able to point at an image of the patient’s eye and say “This is what concerns us and, this is what we are going to do about it”.