05/31/2026
Hi everyone, Dr. Boshnick here. Today I want to talk about one of the most important technologies we use to help evaluate and monitor eye health: the Cirrus OCT.
Many patients ask what an OCT scan is. The easiest way to understand it is to think of it as something similar to an MRI for the eye. While it doesn’t use magnets like an MRI, it creates highly detailed cross-sectional images of the structures inside your eye without touching the eye or causing discomfort.
The Cirrus OCT allows us to look beneath the surface of the retina and optic nerve with incredible precision. It helps us detect changes that may not be visible during a routine eye examination and often identifies problems long before a patient notices symptoms.
One of the most valuable features of this technology is its ability to evaluate the optic nerve. This is especially important when monitoring conditions such as glaucoma, where damage can occur gradually over time. By measuring the thickness of the nerve fiber layers, we can track even subtle changes and make informed decisions about treatment and management.
The Cirrus OCT also gives us a detailed view of the tiny blood vessels within the retina. This can provide valuable information about circulation in the eye and help identify changes associated with conditions such as diabetes, macular degeneration, retinal vascular disease, and other eye health concerns.
Another interesting fact is that the scan takes only a few seconds to perform, is completely non-invasive, and produces thousands of data points that help us better understand the health of your eyes. The level of detail is remarkable, allowing us to see structures that are impossible to evaluate with the naked eye alone.
Technology like the Cirrus OCT has transformed the way we diagnose, monitor, and protect vision. Early detection remains one of the most important factors in preserving sight, and advanced imaging tools like this help us provide the highest level of care possible.
If you have questions about OCT imaging or would like to learn more about your eye health, I’d be happy to discuss it during your next visit.