Digital Imaging
by David Tom, M.D.

Patients requiring fluorescein angiography to diagnose retinal abnormalities can now be diagnosed and treated in the same visit thanks to a new technology called digital angiography.

Using a camera and special computer, the digital imaging system provides immediate access to high resolution images of a patient's ocular tissue without waiting 2-7 days for film development. The images can be reviewed on the computer screen or printed out in hard copy.

Click on the picture below to see an enlarged digital image of a patient with central serous retinopathy. The images reflect typical findings of a dye leak that fills a "blister" in nerve tissues of the retina.

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Having the images immediately on screen allows us to explain the problem and treatment goals better to our patients, and we can provide the images quicker to the referring physicians. The digital system often allows us to treat the problem that day so patients don't have to make another appointment. Another advantage is that new images can be superimposed on old ones for comparisons, affording us better monitoring of patients' conditions over time.