BUSINESS
TECHNOLOGY
SHINING A LIGHT ON OCT
INSTRUMENT DELVES DEEP TO AID IN RETINAL DISEASE DETECTION
WHAT HIDES beneath the surface? That was a question optometrists pondered for years until the advent of OCT. Thanks to this technology, O.D.s are now able to view enough detail in the retinal and intra-retinal layers to aid in a definitive diagnosis.
Here, I discuss some other benefits.
BENEFITS
When OCT first became available, many clinicians regarded it as useful for posterior segment conditions, such as optic nerve disorders and macular disorders, alone. But the instrumentation has evolved to aid in the diagnosis and management of the anterior segment, as it can reveal narrow angles, tear film analysis and help with scleral lens evaluations and fittings. The bottom line: The technology has changed the way I, and other optometrists, practice. OM
Procedural Codes*
92133
Scanning computerized ophthalmic diagnostic imaging, posterior segment, with interpretation and report, unilateral or bilateral; optic nerve
92134
Scanning computerized ophthalmic diagnostic imaging, posterior segment, with interpretation and report, unilateral or bilateral; retina
92132
Scanning computerized ophthalmic diagnostic imaging, anterior segment, with interpretation and report, unilateral or bilateral
*There is a large volume of appropriate retinal and neurological ICD-9 codes that could be associated with these CPT codes depending on medical necessity. Also, as usual, you should check with your LCD and private insurers for indications and reimbursement policies.
Players
• Carl Zeiss Meditec
zeiss.com/meditec
• Haag-Streit Surgical
www.haag-streit-surgical.com
• Heidelberg Engineering
heidelbergengineering.com/us
• Leica Microsystems
leica-microsystems.com
• Nidek
nidek-intl.com
• Oculus
oculus.de
• Optovue
optovue.com
• Topcon
topconmedical.com
Orienting Statement
“This instrument, called an optical coherence tomographer, allows the doctor to examine the multiple layers of your retina, which is the backside lining of your eye. The retina is where the blood vessels that feed and nourish your eyes reside, and it contains your macula, which is responsible for your central vision. Performing this scan will aid us in detecting and, if needed, treating the early signs of eye conditions, such as retinal swelling, age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma, among others.”
| KEVIN GEE, O.D., practices in Houston and is an assistant clinical professor at the University of Houston College of Optometry. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, an ABO Diplomate and an OCRT member. Also, he’s on Allergan’s advisory board and is a consultant for Solution Reach. Email him at drgee@geeeyecare.com, or visit tinyurl.com/OMcomment to comment. |
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