Advanced Technology – At Heritage Eye, Skin & Laser Center, our expert doctors are committed to using only the most advanced technologies available to serve our patients. By combining the expertise and experience of our doctors with state-of-the-art equipment, we are able to offer our patients a degree of service unmatched elsewhere. Contact our practice serving the Sacramento and Modesto areas to learn more about our ophthalmology services and technologies.
Corneal Topography
Corneal topography is a diagnostic tool used by our doctors to create a three-dimensional map, or diagram, of the cornea’s surface curvature. The cornea plays a major role in the eye’s ability to focus; namely, the corneas must be rounded evenly in for the eyes to be able to focus normally. Corneas that are unevenly curved, too flat, or too steep contribute to sub-par vision. With corneal topography, our doctors will be able to identify irregularities on the cornea’s surface that other methods of testing are unable to detect.
Undergoing the corneal topography test is simple – the patient is required to sit in front of a lit bowl and remain still while the connected computer collects a series of data points. The entire process is brief and painless. Using the corneal topography image, our doctors will be able to procure a wealth of information about the cornea, including its shape, power, and condition. This information is then used to identify, diagnose, and treat whatever type of eye condition the patient may have, including:
- Corneal deformities
- Corneal diseases
- Astigmatism, particularly after a corneal transplant
In addition, corneal topography is a particularly valuable tool for planning a laser vision correction surgery, as the doctor can use the information to determine how much corneal tissue needs to be removed.
Heidelberg Retina Tomograph
The Heidelberg Retina Tomograph is the most trusted diagnostic tool used by ophthalmologists to detect glaucoma in its earliest stages. Researched and developed by Heidelberg Engineering using information from over one million eye exams and feedback from hundreds of testers, the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph has become the standard for glaucoma detection.
Using the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph provides both the doctor and the patient distinct advantages over traditional forms of glaucoma detection, including:
- Accurate identification of the development of glaucoma, even in eyes with glaucoma development in its earliest stages – before any vision loss has occurred
- Precise, accurate diagnosis of glaucoma
- Laser scanning tomography imaging produces superior three-dimensional analysis
Humphrey® Field Analyzer II
In addition to the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph, the Humphrey® Field Analyzer II serves as a vital tool in the accurate diagnosis and effective management of glaucoma. While the retina tomography excels at detecting glaucoma, the Humphrey® Field Analyzer II can determine the extent to which visual ability has been compromised by glaucoma, and it can also monitor its progression. The Humphrey® Field Analyzer II is exceptionally accurate and quick; patients’ visual fields can be scanned in just about two minutes.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Scanner
The Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scanner is an essential piece of ophthalmology technology employed at Heritage Eye, Skin & Laser Center. Using light waves, the OCT scanner creates a comprehensive image of the underlying structure of the retina. The images, which are of a quality and detail unmatched by any other technology, are obtained non-invasively during a quick, safe, and comfortable procedure. Our doctors can use these images to diagnose, treat, and manage a variety of conditions, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.
Wavefront Diagnostic Technology
Conventional laser vision correction treatment is based on the optical prescription approach: the patient’s prescription (e.g. -2) is simply programmed into the laser and the machine ablates the necessary amount of corneal tissue. Each patient with a -2 prescription receives precisely the same treatment as all other patients with a -2. Though effective, conventional laser vision correction is unable to provide the ideal results that can only be achieved by paying attention to the uniqueness of each patient’s eyes. However, with wavefront diagnostic technology, a fully customized treatment is now possible.
Unlike traditional testing methods, wavefront diagnostic technology is able to measure the optical system in its entirety – the cornea, lens, and retina – rather than only the corneal surface. Light is emitted in a series of flat “sheets” called wavefronts, passes through the optical system, and is finally reflected back into the wavefront diagnostic machine. Whereas perfect refracting surfaces of the eye will reflect back equally flat sheets of light, corneal irregularities will bend and curve these sheets. These curved, bent, or otherwise irregular wavefronts are used to create a three-dimensional image map of the eye’s imperfections. Data from this map is then transferred to the special excimer laser, which uses the information to perform a treatment custom-tailored to the patient’s unique corneal imperfections.
The customization and precision that wavefront diagnostic technology affords has been shown to reduce, or even altogether eliminate, certain visual side effects caused by conventional laser procedures. Ultimately, patients can achieve much better, sharper vision.