Optos (often referred to as "Optomap") is not a complete replacement for a dilated eye examination because while it can capture a wide field of view of the retina without dilation, it may not provide the same level of detail and clarity needed for a thorough assessment of the eye's health, particularly in certain situations like detecting subtle abnormalities or monitoring specific eye conditions; a dilated exam allows for a more comprehensive view of the retina and optic nerve by enlarging the pupil, enabling a closer inspection with a traditional ophthalmoscope.
Optos is often offered as a substitute for a dilated eye examination and charged separately as a non-covered service by your eye doctor. Rarely, is an Optos (Optomap) indicated without an associated dilated eye exam, and therefore, since a dilated eye exam by an experienced eye doctor is considered the gold standard for a complete eye examination, the need for an Optos or Optomap alone is limited to the few reasons below.
Key points about why Optos isn't a full replacement for dilation:
Limited detail:
While Optos captures a wide peripheral view, the images might appear slightly distorted, making it harder to accurately identify certain retinal pathologies compared to a dilated exam.
Not suitable for all conditions: For conditions like glaucoma, where a detailed examination of the optic nerve is crucial, dilation is still considered the gold standard. Optos also does not give a quality picture of the lens in your eye when assessing for cataracts. Conditions like pseudoexfoliation syndrome in side the eye may also be missed without a complete, dilated eye examination.
Potential for false positives/negatives:
In some cases, Optos images might misinterpret certain features, leading to unnecessary concern or missed diagnoses.
Patient comfort and inconvenience:
Dilation drops can cause temporary blurred vision, which might be a deterrent for some patients, but a thorough eye exam often necessitates this step.
When might Optos be used instead of dilation?
Patients who cannot tolerate dilation:
Individuals with certain medical conditions or those who are highly sensitive to dilation drops might benefit from an Optos scan.
Initial screening:
To get a general overview of the peripheral retina, especially if there is a concern for retinal detachments.