Eye Exams Procedures
Roll over each item below to learn about some of the procedures we most commonly employ during a comprehensive
eye exam at
Family Eyecare of Roswell:
Visual Acuity
We assess the quality of your vision, visual acuity
(VA) for distance and for near vision with standardized test charts at standardized
testing distances under specified lighting conditions.
Objective Refraction
Using equipment called Autorefractor we utilize the reflexes from the
back of your eyes to determine if you are Farsighted, Nearsighted or Astigmatic
Subjective Refraction
Using equipment called the Phoroptor the doctor finalizes the
prescription lenses needed to achieve optimal vision for you at distance, near and
intermediate (Which is better one or two)
Keratometry
We use an Auto–Keratometer as part of our standard pre–testing to measure the curvature of the cornea, the front most part of your eyes. It will assist the doctor in fitting you with proper contact lenses or LASIK consultation.
Automated Perimetry
We use an FDT peripheral Vision Analyzer by Humphrey Instruments to evaluate your peripheral vision. The equipment uses a computer program that flashes small lights as you look at the center of the instrument. You press a button when you see certain visual stimuli in the periphery. Using your responses to one or more of these tests, a map is created of the extent and limitations of your peripheral vision. If you aren't able to see in certain areas, your eye doctor uses the map to help diagnose your eye condition.
Slit—lamp Examination
A slit lamp is a microscope that enlarges and illuminates the front of your eye with an intense line of light. Your doctor uses this light to examine the cornea, iris, lens and anterior chamber of your eye. When examining your cornea, your doctor may use fluorescein (flooh–RES–ene) dye. The orange dye spreads across your eyes to help your eye doctor detect tiny cuts, scrapes, tears, foreign objects or infections on your cornea. Your eyes' tears will wash the dye away.
Retinal Examination (ophthalmoscopy)
A retinal examination – sometimes called ophthalmoscopy or fundoscopy – examines the back of your eye, including your retina, optic disk and the underlying layer of blood vessels that nourish the retina (choroid). Many times before your doctor can see these structures, your pupils must be dilated with special eyedrops. The eyedrops may sting briefly and might cause a medicinal taste in your mouth as the medication drains from your tear ducts into your throat.
Pachymetry
This test measures the thickness of your cornea — an important factor in evaluating your intraocular pressure measurement. After applying numbing eyedrops, we use an instrument that emits ultrasound waves to measure your corneal thickness. Pachymetry also helps determine whether you are a good candidate for LASIK
Eye Pressure Testing (Tonometry)
Elevated eye pressure is one of the most significant risk factors in Glaucoma. Tonometry measures your intraocular pressure — the pressure inside your eyes. It helps your eye doctor detect glaucoma, a disease that causes pressure to build up inside your eyes and can cause blindness. Glaucoma can be treated if it's caught early.
Methods we may use to test your eyes pressure include:
Applanation Tonometry. This test measures the amount of force needed to temporarily flatten a part of your cornea. Fluorescein, the same orange dye used in a regular slit–lamp exam, is usually put in your eye to make your cornea easier to see. You'll also receive eyedrops containing an anesthetic. Using the slit lamp, your doctor moves the tonometer to touch your cornea. It won't hurt, and the anesthetic will wear off within two hours.
Noncontact Tonometry. This method uses a puff of air to test the pressure in your eye. No instruments will touch your eye, so you won't need an anesthetic. You'll feel mild pressure on your eye, which can be uncomfortable, but it lasts only seconds.
Nerve Fiber Analysis
(GDX) Glaucoma is a disease of optic nerve responsible for preventable vision loss in millions of Americans every year. GDX uses a scanning laser to measure the thickness and health of nerve fiber layers of your eyes’ optic nerves. It provides the doctor an excellent diagnostic tool for early detection and management of Glaucoma.
Versions
Eye movement and coordination is evaluated by having you observe an object moving in the field of vision, usually horizontally, vertically and at various angles. The eyes are tested individually and when working together.
Cover Test
The eyes are observed for alignment. Alternately, one eye then the other is covered and uncovered. This tests the resting position of the eyes and their response to focusing and targeting the observed object. Alignment is usually tested at distance and near. Mis–alignment may indicate strabismus (cross– or wall–eyed), uncorrected optical error, or neurological disease.
